Scam: Domain Registry of America Scam : DROA : droa.com

Any of you ever get that Domain Registry of America scam sent via Postal mail? 

 

All I have to say is that it’s a scam.  Plain and simple.  Anyone who is not tech savvy might be pressured into thinking their domain is about to expire and therefore easily check the boxes and fill out the credit card information.  Too bad though, because the prices are more than 5 times higher than normal for the Domain Registry of America. 

 

Don’t do it. 

Scam Company name is: Domain Registry of America

Their website url is www.droa.com

That is http://www.droa.com. Or http://droa.com, or https://droa.com

 

DROA is a Scam

 

Info so you know:

Domain Registry of America

2316 Delaware Avenue #266

Buffalo. New York 14216-2687

Certification or not? I say yes to grow your business.

Did you know that the average deal size for a Microsoft Certified Partner is
67 percent higher than companies without certified status? And did you know
that sales cycles and implementation time for Microsoft Certified Partner
projects is up to 36 percent shorter than for companies without Microsoft
certifications¹?

Embraced by industry professionals worldwide, Microsoft certification
remains one of the most effective ways to reach long-term career goals, and
it is a surefire way for companies to develop and retain valuable IT staff.
Plus, earning certification credentials provides objective validation of the
ability to successfully perform critical IT functions.

Help, I Can’t Print!

Recently I was at an office and had a couple of users complain that they were unable to print. When we had set them up only 3 days before they were working beautifully. So, I went over to the pc and opened up the printers and faxes section to view all of the printers that they were currently connected to. The only tricky part to this was that they use a terminal server so they have different printers displaying locally compared to when they are working off of the server. I discovered that the printer that they had to be connected to was showing up locally and were properly carrying over to their remote sessions, however when I printed a test page nothing was happening. I could ping the printer and connect to the printer interface. I then went over to the printer and looked at the status of the print job. The big mystery of the first printer was that there was NO PAPER! The second printer they kept saying was broke, it was not working etc. so I went over to that second printer, looked at it, turned it on and it worked fine. So if you're trying to print make sure that the printer has paper and that it is turned on.

Read any good PC's lately?

From solar panels to cars that run off of corn, and paperless document systems.  This world actually looks brighter in my eyes.  I’m really excited about the advancements we have made in the recent years due to science.  I recently enjoyed watching the “Off The Grid” episodes by Les Stroud on You Tube and it inspired me to continue that focus into every aspect of my life.  Although I cannot get off the grid right now  I’ve learned that there are many ways which we can help to lead less expensive, environmentally friendly lives while taking advantage of the abundance of natural energy.  I’m excited to see that solar cells have progressed as far as they have and that they can more easily be applied in everyday situations.  I like the fact that more and more  people are recycling, and purchasing cars that run on fuels made from corn extracts!  What most excites me, though it may sound a bit shallow, is that many of our clients are seeing the potential in paperless systems not only for the ease of document flow from one process to another, financial savings, and less trash, but in the fact that they are contributing to a better environment.

 

-David Cochrane

Unable to create and save new file in Point

After upgrading Point to 6.0 we had an issue with users not being able to create a new file and save. It would give an error of: the file is read-only mode or has been opened by someone else: which we knew was not the case. We logged off of point and then logged back in as the administrator and clicked on File: Rebuild list: After the list was rebuilt we then logged back in as the user and we able to create and save the new file.

Windows Vista vs. Windows XP: The duel

Published: December 8, 2006

By Derek Torres

Related Links • Windows Vista Get Ready • Windows Vista • Windows Vista Developer Network

With the release of Windows Vista just around the corner, many home computer users are probably wondering if now is the right time to make the jump to Microsoft's latest addition to the Windows family. Some are perhaps concerned about security and stability, while many are probably wondering why they should even switch to Windows Vista, because Microsoft Windows XP seems to be doing the job.

The short answer is that there are several reasons for upgrading. For example, Windows Vista has:

•	New features
•	Improved security
•	Better overall user experience

I'll introduce you to each of these elements, and you can make your own decision.

Discover new features in Windows Vista

Windows Vista offers a considerable number of new and improved features over Windows XP. Some of these great new features include:

•	Windows Aero: Windows Vista features a totally different look for its interface—a cleaner, transparent look with impressive graphic quality, not to mention Live Icons and the new Windows Flip 3D feature. Windows Aero requires a higher-end video graphics card; otherwise, Windows Vista is displayed using Windows Basic. Check with your computer manufacturer, or use the Windows Vista Upgrade Advisor to see whether your video card is ready for Windows Aero.
•	Windows Sidebar: Windows Vista offers a panel (transparent, if you're using Windows Aero) that displays your selection of Windows gadgets—mini-applications that perform useful functions, such as a clock, a calendar, a Microsoft Office Outlook inbox representation, and currency exchange.
•	Microsoft Windows Media Player 11: While you can download it for Windows XP, this latest and greatest version of Windows Media Player is designed for Windows Vista and shouldn't be missed. With its new graphics-oriented interface, Windows Media Player 11 abandons the text-oriented look and field of previous versions. Did I mention that you can also use Windows Media Player 11 to share your media over your private home network?
•	Windows Search: One of the most helpful new features in Windows Vista, you can now search for files or applications from almost anywhere. Unlike in Windows XP, with Window Search, you can simply type a few letters of your search request, and the results appear on the fly—a helpful feature when looking for a file or application from the Start menu. For example, type fir, and Windows Firewall entries appear in the Start menu.

Windows Aero is a wonderfully new, graphics-powered user interface.

These are just a few of the new features that might attract your attention. Of course, there are many more features and improvements for you to explore in Windows Vista.

Top of page

Enjoy better security

People are concerned about security these days—not only Windows security but also how to protect themselves and their families when using their home computers. Microsoft has addressed both of these issues head on in Windows Vista. Some of the improved security features in the new operating system include:

•	Parental Controls: Windows Vista includes Parental Controls that let you as the computer administrator set highly specific boundaries for other users, including separate standard user accounts for family members, especially children. You can set rules such as which sites a certain user can or cannot access and hours during which a particular user can use the computer; you can also curtail access to specific applications and view where other users have been on your computer and on the Web.
•	Windows Vista User Account Control (UAC): UAC is a new security feature that lets you operate Windows Vista more as a standard user than as a true administrator, where you have complete access to everything. Features that UAC protects, denoted with a multi-colored shield, require your permission or validation before you can access them.
•	Windows Firewall: Windows Vista now features two different firewalls: the standard firewall that was available in Windows XP and Windows Firewall with Advanced Features. The latter offers true firewall protection, including bidirectional filters, meaning that both incoming and outgoing data are scanned.

With Windows Vista's Parental Controls, you can set very specific rules and usage limitations for individual users.

Other security features, such as BitLocker Drive Encryption, are available in some editions of Windows Vista. All Windows Vista editions feature the latest version of Windows Defender, Microsoft's anti-spyware application.

Top of page

An improved user experience

The overall user experience in Windows Vista goes far beyond what is available in Windows XP. Some of the things that I've found really enjoyable are:

•	The new Start menu: The Start menu displays everything within the context of a single menu. Instead of having to scroll through a list of applications (which took up considerable screen real estate in Windows XP), you can now view a single, collapsible Start menu.
•	Improved folders: My Documents, My Music, My Videos, and so on are simplified and appear simply as Documents, Music, Videos. These folders are always present when you search folders. For example, if you're in the Documents folder, folder representations of Music, Videos, Searches, and so on, appear on the left side of the Documents folder.
•	Live Icons: When you're using Windows Aero, you can hover your mouse over open windows in the task bar and see a live representation of what's running in them. You can get the same preview by using the Windows Flip 3D feature or even by pressing ALT+TAB to toggle windows and folders, which makes navigation much easier.

Searching folders is considerably easier in Windows Vista.

These are just a few of the new features that might attract your attention. Of course, there are many more features and improvements for you to explore in Windows Vista.

Top of page

Make the jump

There are many more reasons than I've shown why Windows Vista is a more user-friendly operating system than Windows XP. Beyond all that, it's a much faster operating system. The days of waiting several minutes for Windows XP to load are over; Windows Vista loads within 45 seconds and is ready to go almost instantly. If you have to install Windows Vista, you can perform a full installation in about 35 minutes. If you're still on the fence about switching to Windows Vista, visit Windows Vista Get Ready at http://www.microsoft.com/windowsvista/getready.

---

Derek Torres is a technical communicator and author who has written or co-written books on Windows XP, Windows Vista, Microsoft ASP.NET 2.0, and Windows Gadgets. He also publishes in several industry magazines and regularly presents at technology and communications conferences.

 

Driver Uninstall

One crash error message told me to run the "driver verifier" but I found no evidence this program exists.

Microsoft reporting explains how to remove a driver, but not how to find out which driver to remove.

 

Question: When a driver is causing a serious problem - how do you identify the problem driver?

 

10 Tips for improving your Wireless Network

If Windows ever notifies you about a weak signal, it probably means your connection isn't as fast or as reliable as it could be. Worse, you might lose your connection entirely in some parts of your home. If you're looking to improve the signal for your wireless network, try some of these tips for extending your wireless range and improving your wireless network performance.

1.	Position your wireless router (or wireless access point) in a central location. When possible, place your wireless router in a central location in your home. If your wireless router is against an outside wall of your home, the signal will be weak on the other side of your home. Don't worry if you can't move your wireless router, because there are many other ways to improve your connection.
2.	Move the router off the floor and away from walls and metal objects (such as metal file cabinets). Metal, walls, and floors will interfere with your router's wireless signals. The closer your router is to these obstructions, the more severe the interference, and the weaker your connection will be.
3.	Replace your router's antenna. The antennas supplied with your router are designed to be omni-directional, meaning they broadcast in all directions around the router. If your router is near an outside wall, half of the wireless signals will be sent outside your home, and much of your router's power will be wasted. Most routers don't allow you to increase the power output, but you can make better use of the power. Upgrade to a hi-gain antenna that focuses the wireless signals only one direction. You can aim the signal in the direction you need it most.
4.	Replace your computer's wireless network adapter. Wireless network signals must be sent both to and from your computer. Sometimes, your router can broadcast strongly enough to reach your computer, but your computer can't send signals back to your router. To improve this, replace your laptop's PC card-based wireless network adapter with a USB network adapter that uses an external antenna. In particular, consider the Hawking Hi-Gain Wireless USB network adapter, which adds an external, hi-gain antenna to your computer and can significantly improve your range. Laptops with built-in wireless typically have excellent antennas and don't need to have their network adapters upgraded.
5.	Add a wireless repeater. Wireless repeaters extend your wireless network range without requiring you to add any wiring. Just place the wireless repeater halfway between your wireless access point and your computer, and you'll get an instant boost to your wireless signal strength. Check out the wireless repeaters from ViewSonic, D-Link, Linksys, and Buffalo Technology.
6.	Change your wireless channel. Wireless routers can broadcast on several different channels, similar to the way radio stations use different channels. In the United States and Canada, these channels are 1, 6, and 11. Just like you'll sometimes hear interference on one radio station while another is perfectly clear, sometimes one wireless channel is clearer than others. Try changing your wireless router's channel through your router's configuration page to see if your signal strength improves. You don't need to change your computer's configuration, because it'll automatically detect the new channel.
7.	Reduce wireless interference. If you have cordless phones or other wireless electronics in your home, your computer might not be able to "hear" your router over the noise from the other wireless devices. To quiet the noise, avoid wireless electronics that use the 2.4GHz frequency. Instead, look for cordless phones that use the 5.8GHz or 900MHz frequencies.
8.	Update your firmware or your network adapter driver. Router manufacturers regularly make free improvements to their routers. Sometimes, these improvements increase performance. To get the latest firmware updates for your router, visit your router manufacturer's Web site. Similarly, network adapter vendors occasionally update the software that Windows XP uses to communicate with your network adapter, known as the driver. These updates typically improve performance and reliability. To get the updates, visit Microsoft Update, and then under Select by Type click Hardware, Optional. Install any updates relating to your wireless network adapter. It wouldn't hurt to install any other updates while you're visiting Microsoft Update, too. Note  When you go to Microsoft Update, you have two options: the Express Install for critical and security updates and Custom Install for high priority and optional updates. You may find more driver updates when you use Custom Install.
9.	Pick equipment from a single vendor. While a Linksys router will work with a D-Link network adapter, you often get better performance if you pick a router and network adapter from the same vendor. Some vendors offer a performance boost of up to twice the performance when you choose their hardware: Linksys has the SpeedBooster technology, and D-Link has the 108G enhancement.
10.	Upgrade 802.11b devices to 802.11g. 802.11b is the most common type of wireless network, but 802.11g is about five times faster. 802.11g is backward-compatible with 802.11b, so you can still use any 802.11b equipment that you have. If you're using 802.11b and you're unhappy with the performance, consider replacing your router and network adapters with 802.11g-compatible equipment. If you're buying new equipment, definitely choose 802.11g. Wireless networks never reach the theoretical bandwidth limits. 802.11b networks typically get 2-5Mbps. 802.11g is usually in the 13-23Mbps range. Belkin's Pre-N equipment has been measured at 37-42Mbps.

 

WSUS not finding Computers on Network.

After installing WSUS on  a server there was an issue of getting the computers on the network to join themselves to the service. We tried connecting manually to the pc's through the WSUS interface off of the server, to no avail. Tried logging into the pc's with an account with administrator rights and then tried connecting to them again. Nothing. We have found out that with new computers or with pc's that have never been updated we had to first go to the Windows update website, then manually run the installer on the pc. There are some requirements that the computers have to meet in order to use the update service. After installing anything required to get the updates the pc's began populating within the WSUS program off of the server.

Uninstalling Norton Antivirus

Getting Nortons Antivirus off of your pc can be just as difficult as getting rid of some viruses. When using the add/remove programs you may sometimes receive an error that wants you to buy or upgrade Norton. The first step I take to resolve this is to go into the system configuration and stop Norton from running on startup, then restart the pc. Next, I go back into the add/remove programs and try removing all of the Norton components from there. Once that is finished I restart the pc again and look through the program filed for any remains of Norton Antivirus ( I can usually find something that didn't go away) The last trick that I use is right off of Nortons web site, it's called the Norton removal tool. By downloading and running this utility all instances of Norton should be removed. After the restart your pc should have the green light to operate without any version of Norton on the system. I immediately install the next instance of virus protection that I want to use.

Connecting a Vista pc to Wireless router

After running the set up disc that was provided by the Internet Service Provider the user was unable to connect to the internet even though the pc was plugged directly into the router. The first thing that we did was to get access to the routers interface by getting the gateway address. After connecting and logging in we went to the wireless settings and had to configure the wireless security, router name, WEP encryption and set the security key. After recording the key ( code for connecting to the wireless network) we disconnected the pc from the router, made sure that the modem and router were connected properly and then tried to reconnect to the wireless. After viewing available wireless networks we found the correct one and double clicked on it, entered in our code and we were online!

Reference: What is Virtualization or the new term Virtuation?

In computing, virtualization is a broad term that refers to the abstraction
of computer resources. One useful definition is "a technique for hiding the
physical characteristics of computing resources from the way in which other
systems, applications, or end users interact with those resources. This
includes making a single physical resource (such as a server, an operating
system, an application, or storage device) appear to function as multiple
logical resources; or it can include making multiple physical resources
(such as storage devices or servers) appear as a single logical
resource."[1]
However, the term is an old one: It has been widely used since the 1960s or
earlier, and has been applied to many different aspects and scopes of
computing - from entire computer systems to individual capabilities or
components. The common theme of all virtualization technologies is the
hiding of technical detail, through encapsulation. Virtualization creates an
external interface that hides an underlying implementation, e.g. by
multiplexing access, by combining resources at different physical locations,
or by simplifying a control system. Recent development of new virtualization
platforms and technologies has refocused attention on this mature concept.
Like such terms as abstraction and object orientation, virtualization is
used in many different contexts. This article reviews common uses of the
term, divided into two main parts:
. Platform virtualization involves the simulation of computer environments.
. Resource virtualization involves the simulation of combined, fragmented,
or simplified resources.
Of course, virtualization is also an important concept in non-computer
contexts. Many control systems implement a virtualized interface to a
complex device; thus a modern car's gas pedal does much more than just
increase the flow of fuel to the engine; and a fly-by-wire system presents a
simplified "virtual airplane" which may have little to do with the physical
implementation.
An also useful concept is that which opposes virtualization to transparency:
something is virtual when it is visible, perceivable, but does not
physically exist in the form perceived (e.g. virtual storage); and is
transparent when it exists in the real world, but is not visible in use
(e.g. location transparency).

Virtuation is here! Only a few companies can do it the right way! We're one of them!

Consider using a virtual office hosted by D&K Enterprise and Affiliates.  Access, collaborate, share, communicate with your co-workers simply by remoting into your virtual office from anywhere. We install any programs you need and they will not conflict with each other. Give only certain people in your organization access to certain documents or programs easily!  All you need is internet access and an individual or business subscription to our Virtual Office Hosting.  Even use your mobile phone browser to connect in case of emergency!  http://www.dandkenterprise.com for details!

Virtual Offices Provide Workers Freedom

              For most people the routine is about the same, get up, get ready for work, grab coffee and a muffin on the way to the office and repeat. Now what if your office was with you wherever you may be? What if all of your information existed whenever you sat down at a computer and went online? Can you imagine running a company with no payments for office space, fax and phone lines, electric, water, parking insurance? YOU CAN! At D and K enterprise we provide a virtual working environment which can free up the hassles of having to get to the office just to start work. As long as you can access the internet you can stay productive from anywhere in the world. What we provide is a site that all of your employees can log into with their own unique user name and password and are able to have all of the access to information that they would normally have. With a virtual office you can attend to the things that you need to without having to take time out to "check in" at the office, be at appointments, a kids game or just taking your laptop to the beach and setting up shop there, anywhere you go can be your own virtual office!

Part 2 on how to be competitive in this market.

The second this to do after the dialer is to re-check your internet and phone service.  Even though many of you may think this is a huge task you may be wrong.   Many times when a company is starting up they may not put as much energy into getting the right internet/phone plan to suit their needs.  First of all call us and our experts can recommend a competitive ISP/Phone provider in your area.  Secondly, consider VOIP(voice over IP) because of cheaper rates.  Now with more consistent internet I can recommend getting VoIP for a business.  It’s a good idea to confer with an expert on this system.  Especially if you want to be able to use your phones most of the time and not waste time constantly fixing/configuring them differently.  The advantages of voice-o-IP are numerous.  To name a few; 1. Cheaper rates, 2. Easier to manage(for example, if you switch desks suddenly you can just take your phone with you and you’ll have the same number), you can have one receptionist for several offices, you can take your phone home and plug into internet and literally be connected to the same office so you can dial someone’s extension and reach them just the same, etc….  There are many more reasons which we will get to at some point.

 

Most of all it’s not a difficult transition.  It just takes a little time and planning, and once things are in place, the transition is seamless. 

 

Saving money on phone systems is easy and so is the case on internet.  Rates have gone way down so it’s time to call and re-negotiate a lower rate for your T1 or have a different ISP take their place.

 

D and K Enterprise Consulting has been helping companies make this transition for years and could easily help you.  http://www.dandkenterprise.com

 

Sincerely,

 

David Cochrane

Mac question again. Some people say Macs are better because they can't be hacked.

Is that why it took only 1 week to hack the iphone? Oh, wasn’t Itunes cracked? Oh, wait… Every non-biased technology expert in this area laughed at this question.  Most resorted to saying the simple but logical answer, knowing they could easily be hacked, saying that it’s a popularity battle.  It turns out they are right because proportionately it’s a close call.  Now that Macs are becoming more popular the number of compromised Macs is increasing.

 

DON’T GET ME WRONG.  I LOVE MACs.  REALLY DO.  USED THEM FOR 8 YEARS ALREADY.  And we can seamlessly network them if need be, but I’m just saying this because of all of the mis-interpreted logic going on in some minds that gives Windows a bad rap. 

 

Peace yo,

 

David Cochrane

Why does everybody keep asking me why we don't service Mac? Ahhh. That's an easy answer.

Windows does it all…

 

Why do people, especially the ones with Virtual PC for Mac ask that question?  Don’t they realize that the reason they have virtual pc is because of the limitations of their Mac? 

 

Most of the computers we work on are for business.  Most business applications work on Windows.  Windows servers have an exorbitant amount of functionality. Windows office networking system is incredibly easy to manage if setup the right way(takes a lot of planning and knowledge). 

 

Sincerely,

David Cochrane

Starting point for your computer network! Call D&K to do it the right way!

Your first computer network can be quite intimidating. Understanding the
ABCs of computer networking can help alleviate the frustration and anxiety
that you may encounter.
Congratulations on your decision to design, build, and reap the benefits of
your own computer network!

I've seen something similar to that on so many of the directions that come
with appliances and technology gadgets that thought it fitting to start out
the first of many articles on computer networks in the same vein.

Now down to the business at hand...

Whether you have made the decision to build a home network to share an
internet connection, or a network at your place of business to share
important resources, there are certain steps that need to be taken to save
yourself a great deal of frustration and anxiety down the road. To help
introduce you to the processes involved, let us look at the ABC's of
computer networking.

ASSESS
Anything done right comes from a good plan. This should be the first step
you take with your network. Take the time to assess what it is you want your
network to be able to do. As a home user, you may want to only share an
internet connection between two computers. Or possibly link more than one
computer to the new laser printer you purchased. In the workplace, the
demands of a network may be more complex. In addition to sharing resources
such as internet connections and printers, files may need to be shared.
There may also be the need to manage the rights and privileges of multiple
users.

In the assessment stage, it is necessary to determine the immediate needs of
the network as well as how it will grow. Are there plans to implement
wireless technologies? Will a home network eventually house a media center
or cameras? Is your business expected to grow in the near future? Will you
be hosting your own website? Will you be using a workgroup or a domain? Take
into consideration all of your intentions for your networking needs. It is
far easier to grow into something if you have planned for it.

BUILD IT
Once you have assessed your needs and planned your network, the next step is
to actually build it. Have a checklist of steps that you need to take.
Include the purchase of necessary items such as modems, switches, and
cabling. Have everything ready and in place before you start connecting your
computers and other resources together.

CONTROL
Keep a watchful eye on your network. It is easy for things to get out of
control when you start adding resources. By documenting everything on your
network from day one you will find that troubleshooting problems and
securing your network is far easier. When you do add resources, or upgrade,
make note of the date as well. If you install updates, new software, new
hardware, check the event logs. Note any problems that correspond to the
dates new resources were added. Utilize your assessment plans here as well.
Sometimes, the newest technology may sound great on paper, but if it doesn't
fit into your plan, maybe you need to evaluate it a little further.

Although these guidelines are a brief introduction to managing a computer
network, following these steps can help your network run more effectively
and efficiently.

Computer Network Terminology in Brief

In order to better understand the world of computer networking, it is
essential to understand some of the more complex terminology. Listed below
you will find a list of n

Address Mask - A bit mask used to select bits from an Internet address for
subnet addressing

Active Directory Service (ADS) - A service that can be used as an
information service as well as administrative service.

API - Application Programming Interface

Address Resolution Protocol (ARP) - The Internet protocol used to
dynamically map Internet addresses to physical (hardware) addresses on LANs.

Acceptable Use Policy (AUP) - Policies and procedures used to govern the
appropriate usage of a network, computer, resource, or service.

Authentication - The process by which a user's identity is checked within
the network to ensure that the user has access to the requested resources or
services.

Bootstrap Protocol (BOOTP) - Protocol that allows an Internet node to
discover certain startup information, such as its IP address.

Challenge Handshake Authorization Protocol CHAP) - A protocol used for
identifying and authenticating a user and his or her password. The password
used challenge response methods to identify clients.

Cookie - A piece of information sent by a Web server to a Web browser. The
browser software is then expected to save the data and send it back to the
server whenever the browser makes additional requests from the server.

Distributed Computing Environment (DCE) - The services that support the
creation and maintenance of distributed applications.

Dynamic Host Configuration Protocol (DHCP) - A protocol used to retrieve
startup information such as a subnet mask and IP address from a DHCP server.

Domain Naming System (DNS) - A system used by the Internet for translating
names of host computers into addresses.

Domain - An element of the naming hierarchy on a network.

Domain Name - The unique name that identifies an Internet site or on a
network.

Encryption - A type of network security in which information sent over the
network is encoded so that only the intended users can access the
information.

Firewall - Hardware and/or software used to protect a LAN from malicious
attacks by filtering incoming or outgoing packets.

Gateway - Any hardware or software that is used for the purpose of providing
access from one system to another.

Hop - Term used to describe the data link between two gateways or routers
that a packet must travel to reach its destination.

Host - Term used in the Internet community to describe any device attached
to the network that provides application-level service.

Internet Control Message Protocol (ICMP) - Used to communicate IP status and
error messages between hosts and routers.

Internet Protocol (IP) - The IP contains addressing information and some
control information that allows packets to be routed. An IP address is the
specific address assigned to a computer connected to a network. If the IP
address is manually given to a network device, it is said to be static, if
it is assigned through DCHP it is said to be static.

Lightweight Directory Access Protocol LDAP) - Serves as framework under
which different NOS and application-specific directories may be incorporated
and managed.

Management Information Base II (MIB-II) - A collection of objects that can
be accessed via a network management protocol such as SNMP.

Microsoft Management Console (MMC) - A container utility that takes
different management tools called ""Snap-Ins"".

Network Device Interface Specification (NDIS) - A driver, developed by
Microsoft and 3Com, for LANs that support Token-Ring and Ethernet network
types.

NetBIOS Extended User Interface (NetBEUI) - A transport protocol that
supports Windows for Workgroups.

Network Basic Input Output System (NetBIOS) - The standard interface to
networks on IBM PC and compatible systems using Microsoft and IBM network
software.

Open Directory Services Interface (ODSI) - A set of WOSA API's, for a single
set of interfaces for building applications that access, register with, and
manage multiple directory services.

OU - Organizational units

OSI - Open Systems Interconnection

Password Authentication Protocol (PAP) - A protocol used for identifying and
authenticating a user and his or her password.

Reverse Address Resolution Protocol (RARP) - A protocol used by a host to
obtain an IP address based on the address of the host's adapter card. This
protocol is typically used when IP addresses are scarce.

Routing Information Protocol (RIP) - A protocol, limited to a small number
of machines attached to LANs, used to exchange Internet routing information
across networks.

Simple Network Management Protocol (SNMP) - A set of standards for
communication with devices connected to a TCP/IP network. Examples of these
devices include routers, hubs and switches."

Source Route - The route that a packet takes to reach its destination. The
route is determined prior to the start of the transmission of the packet.

Subnet Mask - The part of the address mask that identifies an individual
network within a larger network.

Transmission Control Protocol/Internet Protocol (TCP/IP) - The suite of
protocols that defines the Internet. Originally designed for the Unix
operating system, TCP/IP software is now available for every major operating
system.

User Datagram Protocol (UDP) - A transport protocol in the Internet suite of
protocols. UDP, like TCP, uses IP for deliver; however, unlike TCP, UDP
provides for the exchange of datagrams without acknowledgment or guaranteed
delivery.

Universal Naming Convention (UNC) - Addresses currently used in Windows NT
Server networks to point to shared volumes, files, and printers.

URL - Universal Resource Locator

WINS - Windows Internet Naming Service

WOSA - Windows Open Services Architecture

How and what can D and K help you out with your technology needs? Here's what we're doing for others right now and they can then grow faster and more efficiently!

1. Backups:
a. Countless businesses suffer each year from natural disaster and
hardware failure. Businesses think they have a backup solution in place
but find out when disaster strikes that either their backups were destroyed
or the backups they thought they had were never actually running. We
provide onsite and offsite backup solutions tailored to the business needs,
redundancy solutions if necessary, disaster recovery and verification of
backup integrity.

2. Keep your computers up to date:
a. We can push out Microsoft Windows updates to designated Windows
workstations and servers automatically, eliminating the need to manually
check each computer, download necessary updates and properly install them.
Reports can be run from anywhere on the network which specify which updates
have been approved, declined, installed or failed.

3. Remote Access to your office computer:
a. Having remote access to your office computer from anywhere can
allow you to work even if you are out of the office, share files with others
on the office network, utilize office resources, and most importantly stay
organized by keeping your information in one location.

4. Content filtering to filter sites based on keywords instead of only
domain names and IPs.
a. Content filtering is available to you and highly recommended for
businesses of all sizes. This new technology minimizes the websites
available to your employees while allowing them full access to the sites
they do need to do their work. This helps to maximize their productivity,
increase network security and prolong the efficiency of the computers.

5. Network Design and Implementation:
a. Our networks are designed with a full-circle approach utilizing
best practices tailored to your business needs. From the hardware,
software, expertise, design, and even when it comes time to work with your
other venders we implement a networking system that is right for you. The
full-circle approach takes us from network functionality to efficiency, and
then to backups and data recovery while maintaining security standards and
allowing for growth. This allows your company to grow easily while
minimizing the cost to achieve your goals all while having the peace of mind
that your network is in good hands.

6. System Documentation/Assessment
a. The System Assessment allows us to document your systems and
gather the information we require to effectively support them. You will be
provided with a report containing an overview of your network and systems
including configuration summary, network schematics and a schedule of any
remedial works, if necessary, with suggested priorities.

7. Technical Support:
a. Our technical support is available for IT consulting,
troubleshooting technical issues, maintaining your office network, and to
work on specific projects.

8. Phone Support:
a. Phone support is available for IT consulting or to troubleshoot
technical issues.

9. Remote support:
a. Remote access support uses a secure encrypted connection to your
network enabling our technicians to access any supported device on the
network. We can even extend our remote access support to your mobile or
remote users anywhere in the world if they have access to the internet.
This convenient method of support allows for a higher rate of closure on
issues in a faster amount of time allowing for increased uptime and
productivity for your employees. The extent of support that is possible by
remote access has dramatically reduced the need to attend the site to
resolve issues, monitor as well as maintain the network.

10. On-Site Support:
a. When it is not possible or appropriate to resolve a problem
remotely you will have access to on-site support in accordance with your
service agreement. On-site support will be provided by qualified and
experienced field engineers, in co-ordination with our support desk.

11. User and Computer Policies:
a. We create policies on Windows Domain servers that tell certain
Microsoft Windows computers to perform a multitude of different functions
such as placing a favorite in everyone's Favorite's menu within Internet
Explorer. Other examples include adding your company's logo to every
desktop, set every home page to a specific site, add specific printers,
enable Windows Firewall, disable programs such as Windows Messenger, and
disallowing employees to burn CDs. These are just a few ideas that others
have utilized to increase productivity and security. Not to mention, when
it comes time to add another computer all we do is join it to the domain and
the preset policies take place immediately.

12. System Administration/Maintenance
a. Many day-to-day administrative tasks can be preformed remotely.
Network interlinks can carry out these tasks on your behalf. If it is
necessary to attend your site to carry out administration, we will arrange
for one of our qualified and experience technicians or consultants to visit.
b. Administrative Tasks include but are not limited to:
i. Setup of New Users
ii. New Email Accounts
iii. Amendment of existing user accounts, email and
permissions
iv. Administration of supported routers and switches
v. Administration of supported security devices or software
vi. Administration of supported Antivirus Software
vii. Commissioning* of hardware, software, or services (see
below)
viii. Office re-organizations or moves
ix. Administration of devices owned or supported by third
parties

*Commissioning: Installation and configuration of new hardware, software, or
services, including re-installation or re-configuration of existing
hardware, software or services re-designated to different users or
functions.

Outsourcing IT inside the USA is a prime idea! Why you might say?

PROS:
1. Outsourcing if done properly will save you money:
. Implementation costs
. Operational costs
2. Brings in more experience,
3. Increases depth of knowledge
4. Gives a new outlook on your IT strategy
5. Frees Valuable Staff Resources
6. Increases Business Effectiveness
7. Increases Availability
8. Facilitates Reallocation of Resources:
. Focus more on strategic planning with line managers.
. Spend more time on measurements and analytics.
. Spend more time planning and budgeting.
. Work with line managers to better understand training needs.
. Evaluate new technologies and approaches for greater efficiency and
effectiveness.

Technology tips to beat the competition in this lower than average mortgage market.

More to come, but to start out here is a tip for Mortgage/other industries
to stay competitive in a struggling market!

1. Call DK Enterprise Consultants and have them install a state of the art
predictive dialer! This system will give you the edge when it comes to
dialing leads. As they all say, "It's a numbers game". When you have a
predictive dialer the numbers are turned in your favor. The average person
can dial a few numbers/minute because they have to look at the phone number,
wait for a dial tone, dial the correct number without mistakes, wait for the
ring or busy signal, document everything, and if they don't speak to anyone
then move onto the next call. Yeah you might be able to save money by
telling people to hang up after 4 rings instead of 5 but you could be losing
a lot of business. Why waste your time doing that, or as an owner why would
you want to pay people to waste their time dialing? I'm sure you would
rather pay them to be on the phone constantly! With the predictive dialer
the hassle of calling is out of the question. The leads are loaded into the
system thousands at a time, they are dialed automatically and only signal
the Marketing Agent when a call is connected. Oh, well why would I want a
computer to do that if it only saves me 20 seconds on the dial you might
say? It's because while the agents are on the phone, this system dials as
many numbers as you want it to dial based on a proven formula in
anticipation of when the next Agent is ready for the next call. The lead
information is automatically displayed on the screen and the Marketing Agent
knows exactly who they are talking too! They can transfer the call to a
Broker, or hang up and mark their disposition by clicking a button. Want to
schedule a call back? Easy, just click Call Back and select the time and
whether or not you want to be the agent to speak with them or if anyone can
get that lead. It's so versatile and has helped many mortgage companies
stay on top of the competition! Chances are if the Mortgage company is
still there today then they probably already have a dialing system. What
makes this system unique you might say? It is truly a predictive dialing
system with hundreds of other features. Predictive because it doesn't just
call numbers, but predicts how many numbers it needs to call in order to
keep the numerous Agent's on the telephone. Say you want to have an agent
work from home? No problem. We'll set that up for you. Oh, and it's not
just tailored to the mortgage industry. Say you're a school that wants to
automatically contact your students of an event/emergency? No problem. We
load any message, and auto dial numbers on the list to leave that message!
This system is for any company that relies on use of telephones for
marketing purposes.

List of the most popular technology blogs.

Here is a list of the most popular blogs on our website that deal with technical issues based on Micro$oft’s operating system in advanced networking infrastructure environments.

 

1.       Regional: Computer Network Consulting Blog Fort Lauderdale

2.       Microsoft Windows Technology Consulting Reference Blog

3.       IT Outsourcing for Microsoft Windows Networks

4.       Mortgage Technology Support Blog

 

If you have a question don’t hesitate to post and we’ll reply ASAP.  The more challenging the question, the faster you will get your answer!

 

-David Cochrane

 

SoftGird Client on Windows Vista

If you are using SoftGrid in your company environment, You may consider the compatibility of SoftGrid Client on Windows Vista.

There are many new features and security enhancements in Windows Vista. But it may conflict with SoftGrid Client.

If the management board confirmed to Upgrade the Existing Windows to Windows Vista, And they also want to continue to use SoftGrid. Don't worry. SoftGrid Client 4.1.0.56 Supports It!

To configure the SoftGrid Client on Windows Vista, You have to Disable the UAC Feature in Windows Vista first. You can disable it in "Control Panel", "User Accounts"   

And then Install and Configure SoftGrid Client 4.1.0.56 on Windows Vista.

Note| You need to add a new environment variable "SFT_SOFTGRIDSERVER" on Windows Vista OR Change the %SFT_SOFTGRIDSERVER% to the IP or FQDN of the SoftGrid Virtual Applications Server in the SoftGrid OSD File.

 

Softgrid client issue with Q drive not working because it was already there before the Softgrid Client was installed.

When you create the Softgrid package on the sequencer you should have the Q drive already setup for the installation files.  However, when you install the client for TS or Windows Desktop you might not have the ability to change the default drive.  Just be sure that on the Client Machine there are no drives labeled Q before you begin the installation.  This is because the sequencer will create a virtual Drive Q.  If Q is present when you install, the installation will automatically take the next available drive letter such as R:.  This will mess up all of the programs that you try to run which were sequenced to a Q drive. 

 

 

 

David Cochrane

Senior Network Specialist

D&K Enterprise

Bridging the gap between humans and technology.

100 N. Federal Highway, Suite 840

Fort Lauderdale, Fl 33301

Phone  (954) 615-7905

Fax      (831) 306-3715

Secure Softgrid Info on Microsoft's Site

http://support.microsoft.com/?kbid=939324 - Options that provide encrypted connections between SoftGrid desktop clients and SoftGrid virtual application servers

update

Things done remotely today.

 

1.     setup new computer on network wirelessly, setup shared folders, setup printers, created matching accounts on server for network access, clean  up viruses/malware on pcs and install free avg antivirus for protection, verify firewall on and configured properly, updated windows, disabled programs from auto start to free up memory

2.     install hp printer on another pc and shared it out for network, add that shared printer to another computer

3.     Troubleshoot internet connectivity to Bellsouth DSL, plugged into Ethernet port on dsl and configured ip address for Netopia, did speed tests and found inconsistent connection speeds, after Bellsouth reset the port on their end it was fast but then it slowed down severely again, plugged router back into network and reset it's ip address, turned on ISA FW again as that is not impeding traffic speed, reset static ips and tested speed again with same results

4.     Andres - Disabled startup programs, uninstalled Kaperski and Windows defender, installed AVG antivirus, ran scans found and removed 61 medium risk threats, adding access to processing folders for Wendy and matt on 11/14

5.     helped fix printing issue.  Someone changed the printing preferences of the printer to print to file every time someone printed.  After uncheck everything was working properly,  updated server operating system, updated server antivirus, ran antivirus scan, checked server status and working properly

6.     consulted on phone system support and internet switching, setup remote connection, reset administrator password, upgraded domain functional level, updated server os files, did brief audit to see what needs, error appear in logs, assured disconnection from other offices, consulted on registering new domains and setting up new email addresses, created one backup of calyx files on 2nd hard drive on server, suggest much more for backups though, need to increase RAm to 1 Gig, fixed permissions error for 2 computers with point templates, installed Norton on server, updated it and set schedule scan, will send over confidentiality agreement and service contract today.

7.     fixed freezing issue on hectors pc, updated his windows, updated java, updated acrobat reader, uninstalled Symantec since it was not working properly, installed avg antivirus, installed WINs on server and configured wins on hectors pc to speed it up and log in faster, uninstalled unnecessary programs

8.     Show to install office using RunAs and using key provided on CD, consult on setting up point templates to increase efficiency of calyx system Installed another printer on network and changed scripts to allow for auto printer adding.

9.     Updated server operating system, installed WSUS on server which pushed out all windows updates to workstations, removed acrobat reader 7 and pushed out version 8 through Group Policy .MSI Package, updated macromedia player on all pcs. Setup Rachel with remote access to her computer from outside the office

10.  Updated server operating system, called Doubletime for support for installing since program did not install based on published directions, installation was completed successfully on server and then rolled out to all of the workstations individually, updated caused problems with Outlook Business Contact Manager(tshoot and fixed with Bus Contact Mgr update), installed Free AVG Antivirus on  pc, ran scan and cleaned 3 viruses.