All The Things You Should Know About Windows 10

Posted by Andreas Christodoulou

Description :

Helloooo everyone! Happy Monday... Happy new day... Happy new week... :) 

If you’re an avid PC user then you are probably familiar with one of the most popular operating systems Microsoft Windows. As you might have guessed, Microsoft has its newest version of Windows (Windows 10) just on the horizon and will be released to the public in late - 2015. 

The new version doesn’t necessarily mean a new user interface. If anyone is familiar with Windows 7 and Windows 8 they may be pleasantly surprised by this updated version. Windows 10 promises to ‘blend’ the two, making for a richer user experience.

What To Expect 

 1. Windows 10 is going to be available on all devices (laptops, desktops, smartphones, phablets and tablets). This will make it easier to access the “Internet of Things” and communicate with everyday appliances. There’s also been talk of integrating the Xbox system into it as well. Microsoft aims to make the interface as similar as possible, across all media devices (by creating universal apps). 

2. Windows 10 will bring back the Start Menu (bigger, better, stronger) with a customizable space for apps. This should make a lot of Windows 8 users happy since there were many complaints about it's “migration". 

3. There is also a new “quadrant” layout system, making it easy to quickly snap-arrange (side by side) 4 apps to a screen. 

4. Windows 10 comes with new touch features for interfaces and environments.

5. Microsoft is also introducing ‘Continuum’, a new system which makes for a more seamless experience between the tablet/laptop combos (switch between touch and non-touch). 

6. Another Windows feature from the past is the command prompt. This updated version is making a comeback and even allows copying and pasting.

7. Internet Explorer is dead! Spartan (codename) Browser, a Microsoft alternative to IE, is here.

8. Windows 10 is clearly targeting Enterprise users through Windows Software Assurance (SA) program.

9. Microsoft takes serious security measures with two-factor-authentication (2FA), storing user access tokens and offering data loss prevention solutions.

10. Finally there's a support for multiple desktops. But... we're going to need bigger screens.

11. Microsoft brings Cortana, its digital assistant, to the desktop supporting features like calling people, reminders, mapping and location, checking weather information and launching apps.

12. Microsoft's HoloLens (Holographic Glasses) with Windows 10 will deliver a next-gen computing experience.

More Information

As of right now the only version that is offering a smooth install is Windows 8.1, so make sure to check with the Compatibility Center before you install Windows 10. Microsoft is also warning that it's not for new users. If you don’t know what an ISO file is, or have a separate computer to install it on, stick with your current version. Because is in its pre-release stages (Technical Preview, Build 9926), it’s going to have bugs in it (some things about the interface may even change). Users can expect a friendlier version upon release, but for now it’s still a work in progress. 

 You should also sign up with the Windows Insider Program. All this really does is absolve Microsoft from any responsibility of deleting anything important off your computer. Just like previous versions of Windows, this will get regular updates as well. 

Another thing to take into consideration is that it's a 4GB download. There is a 32 and 64-bit version available and in several different languages. You’re also going to need a USB drive or a DVD with 4GB of space on it. ImgBurn and Rufus are the two programs recommended for copying the OS to a drive. And if you want a sneak peek then you better get on it. The pre-release version is only going to be available until April 2015.

One other great thing is that you don’t need to invest in hardware upgrades to be able to use the new software. If your PC can handle Windows 8.1 then the Windows 10 Preview shouldn’t be a problem. Your processor needs to be 1GHz or faster and 1GB of memory for the 32 bit version. If you have the 64 bit version then you’re going to need 2GB or memory. Lastly make sure that you have 16GB of free space on your hard drive.

You can never go back. Once you have Windows 10 installed on your computer, you won’t be able to use your recovery partition to downgrade to a previous version of Windows. The only way to downgrade will be to wipe Windows 10 from your system, and do a re-install of the previous version. This is another reason having a back up PC is important, if you make a mistake you can just start over or have all your information safe and backed up. 

Since it’s in the early stages, Windows 10 may not be the right choice for your system just yet. But the changes that Microsoft is incorporating suggest they are paying more attention to the consumer this time around. Your best bet is to stick with your most recent version of Windows, let them work out all the kinks and then purchase it. It’s even a good idea to wait a month or two after the initial release. New software is always going to be a bit buggy right after launch no matter how much testing is done. 

RECOMMENDED: The Battle between Windows, Chromebook and Mac

If you liked this story, please take a few seconds to share it. Feel free to report typos and corrections using this form. Thank you! 

*by andreascy*

The Battle between Windows, Chromebook and Mac

Posted by Andreas Christodoulou

Description :

Hi friends! We are friends by now, right? If you haven't before, I would be grateful if you follow our page on Twitter. Please share with others. 

Chances are that you’re already quite familiar with all the options that the technological world provides us when it comes to computers and their operating system.

In stores, you have a choice between 3 operating systems: OS X by Apple, Chrome OS by search engine giant Google, and Windows from former software monopoly Microsoft. Each OS has their own pros and cons, and when choosing the right fit for you, there are a few things to consider for each one of them. 

Windows

Everyone has probably used a Windows computer at least once in their life. Windows is still the most popular operating system out there, used by companies, governments, and individuals worldwide. Because of its huge user base, Windows has an advantage over the other OS’s, as almost all software on the internet is made for Windows. Another pro of Windows is its usability. Just about everyone is able to use a Windows computer. A final pro is that you have a wide variety of choices when it comes to the computer that runs the OS. 

But on the con side, Windows needs a lot of extras when it comes to security. Its big user base makes it a target for hackers, and it’s incredibly easy to get a virus when surfing the web. Physically, Windows computers are quite heavy when you compare them to Chromebooks and MacBooks. Finally, most of the best working Windows computers are above the $400 mark. This doesn’t exactly make it the most affordable computer out there.

Chromebooks

When comparing Chromebooks and Chrome OS with that of the big guys (Windows and Apple), Google’s computer is still in diapers. Nevertheless, it is growing rapidly in popularity. Chrome OS is based entirely around Google’s web server, Chrome, and this is both a gift and a curse. It’s a gift in that everything goes directly into the cloud, making it impossible for you to lose files even when something happens to the computer itself. Another reason it’s a gift is its usability. Even your grandmother could handle a Chromebook! It’s nowhere near as frustrating as using a Windows computer can be for the older generation. A Chromebook is also highly affordable, with most computers sold at under $400. The screen quality is way better than that of a MacBook. 

However, as I mentioned before, the way the Chrome OS runs is also a curse. You are unable to download any software or hardware onto your Chromebook, and while you are able to make a lot of apps available offline, it definitely can be a pain in the ass. Another definite con of the Chromebook is that you can’t fully download Skype. If you want to use Skype, you have to make do with the IM+ messenger, which comes without the option for video calls. For those of you who can’t live without video calls, there is the option of Hangouts, Google’s very own version of Skype. Google Hangouts comes with a few extras, like free group calls and the ability to draw on the person you’re calling with. 

MacBooks

When Apple decided to make the MacBook Air, they were aiming for something portable and high performance, with a great design and usability. An Apple MacBook is often the first choice for designers, graphic artists, and anyone else who has made it their job to bring you high quality media. All of your files, pictures, etc. get stored into iCloud, which makes it incredibly easy to transfer a file from one device to another. MacBooks are lightweight, which makes them great for travel or just moving about at home. 

The biggest con of MacBooks is their price. Apple has always been about the exclusive feel that you get from their products, and the MacBook Air is the perfect example of this. Prices range from $800 to $3000. So, is it worth the price? Yes, it can be. Contrary to popular belief, Mac OS X is not immune to viruses. The threat just isn’t as big, because like stated before, most hackers focus on Windows computers. Just as with Apple’s other products (like the iPhone and the iPod), it is nearly impossible to make any changes to the MacBook itself, which can be a little impractical when it comes to having to change the battery or upgrading the internal storage space. 

So which one is the best?

That is up to you to decide. Don’t mind a computer that’s completely based around internet and Google? Then the Chromebook will be a great choice for you. Are you a gamer, or do you like to mess around a bit? Then the obvious choice for you is a Windows laptop. A designer or artist? The MacBook is your perfect match.

*by andreascy*

Get Windows 8 RTM Startscreen SDK for XP, Vista and 7

Posted by Andreas Christodoulou

Description :

We have seen many transformations to the Windows Operating System, and each one has its own beauty and impresses with its own applications. 

Microsoft as we all know, has released Windows 8 RTM (Build 9200), with lots of new features, GUI changes and interesting enhancements including Boot & Login screen, Start menu, Ribbon in Explorer, Metro Theme & Apps etc. You can take a look at all these new features in this detailed review.

If you are still using Windows XP, Vista, 7 or even older Windows 8 versions, and you don't want to install this latest OS, but still want to enjoy some of the new features, here are the interesting news for you: 

Our friend PeterRollar, who is well known for his amazing and famous Windows transformations, released "Windows 8 RTM Startscreen SDK" that you will definitely enjoy.

It's about time to bring this new Windows feeling to your old and perhaps boring OS and desktop. All this with the help of AveDesk 1.3, an application which makes desktop prettier and more usable. As you can see in the above screenshots, the change looks very close to Windows 8 RTM, so Peter has made a great work with his skills, that might worth your attention.

"This is probably the most complete and most similar transformation from older Windows to Windows 8 you can find in the web."

Why SDK (Self-Development Kit)?

"Because you can use it as it is, or modify it to your likings. Build your own personal startscreen if you want."

Windows 8 Versions already included in the pack:

- Developer preview

- Consumer preview

- Release preview

- RTM

*Basic knowledge of manual customization needed. 

So what are you waiting for? Check it out and let us know what you think. Share this post with your friends and help them and others, to have some fun too. 
Subscribe to our Newsletters for more updates! 

📧

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📰

*by andreascy*

Finesse Icon Pack: 125 Excellent Icons Now Available for Purchase!

Posted by Andreas Christodoulou

Description : 

Icons are everywhere on the web. In most modern designs, they are used to not only complete our design but also to attract the user’s eye. Designers use icons to create breath-taking designs and decorate their desktop as well. 

Perhaps that is why we love those small indispensable graphical images so much, it’s an appreciation of the hard work, creativity, and talent of the designer.

Also, every application maker wants to make their application looks good. They not only want to improve their site's design but they also look after their customer's choices and technical factors. So, they use icons to increase the appearance of their application and give a better Service to their Customers. And this is very important! 

People who do this type of work professionally, they don't have such time to create each icon personally. So they prefer to buy authentic icons from a professional and at a reasonable price. Today, we present to you an example of this.

"Finesse Icon Pack"

Made by our talented friends Gaurav & Aditya Bhatt, a designing team that brings to you Beautiful Icons with Great Colors and a Unique Detailed Style. Icons for your Apps, Desktop, Docks, Concepts, Rainmeter, XWidget, for literally anything! 

Learn more from the Creator's Comments below:

- Over 120 XHDPI icons with a resolution of 100x100 in .PNG format.

- These icons can be used on any platform, mainly Android.

- Retailed at $1 (USD) only.

- You will be provided with :

• Free Updates

• Free Icon Requests

If you have any suggestions, queries or problems regarding this icon pack, please feel free to contact the creators.

Comment below if you would buy this pack or if you have any requests for icons. Don't forget to spread the word about it. 👍

*by andreascy*

A Rookie’s Guide To Choosing A Tablet

Posted by Andreas Christodoulou

Description :

Let’s face it. There are just too many tablets available in the market today. While a lot of tech savvy’s are rejoicing, others find it frustrating to pick one that best suits their standards. 

Well, you’re in luck because for this post, I’m going to let you in on a rookie’s guide to choosing the best tablet you can buy. So don’t be too hasty boxing yourself on getting the newest iPad. Below are some tips to ease your tablet purchase experience.

Is it for work or play? 

Apart from some adjustments that you need to adapt to when using a tablet, you need to first qualify the need for one. Are you going to buy a tablet because you want entertainment to be within handheld reach? Or do you intend to use it for taking notes in a meeting or to document one?

While some brands guarantee their tablets to suffice any purposes, some are built to incline more on work than play. If you’re on the lookout for a device to help you out in the office, then a BlackBerry PlayBook is a wise choice. If you’re aiming to elevate your couch potato level, then have a go at the Sony S Tablet.

Consider the tablet model

Tablets come in different forms. Slate models are the common ones that use touch recognition and are more compact. Convertible ones are those that come with keyboards, similar to notebooks but with rotating screens. Hybrid models are tablets that combine both slate and convertible features. 

Whichever model you choose, ensure your lifestyle and personality are well compensated by it. 

Yes, size does matter

Tablets that have a 5-inch display are obviously more compact and easier to carry. Those with bigger sizes of screens are in need of greater security and safety. 

Consider the size carefully as it entails the effort of having to hold one for a long period of time. If you’re someone who doesn’t necessarily need a big one and will only use it for games and basic browsing, then settle for the more compact ones. If you’re one who’s quite picky with better screen quality, then a 10-inch is swell enough. 

Will you need a lot of space?

Another thing you need to ask yourself is whether or not you want a large storage space. Some have laptops and mobile phones they can store their information into. The ideal solution is to go for a tablet that has an 8GB memory for lighter files.

On the other hand if you need a tablet that will act as the main storage for all your files, then go for those that allow up to 64GB space. 

Availability of apps

Apple has over 200,000 apps that can be used with their devices. Some androids have well built-in apps but are struggling in the third party department. So assess if you need a tablet that can be loaded with a variety of apps or if you just need a more exclusive one. 

How much are you willing to spend?

Windows tablets can run up to $800 while some androids sell as low as $99. While you need to assess the features and functionality of a tablet, your budget should also be one of the factors you need to consider.

What you can do is compare prices online and see which the best deal for you is.

A tablet is one tech investment you wouldn’t want to miscalculate on. So make sure you know at the very least the basic standards of choosing one. From there, it’s going to be a lot easier and possible one of the best-delayed gratifications you can indulge in.

Samantha Nicole Samonte is a Content Specialist for Webcada, an SEO company in Singapore. She spends the rest of her time guest-blogging for various websites. 

*by andreascy*

WIndows 8 will be much more secured than Windows 7

Posted by Unknown

Description :

Researchers Chris Valasek (Senior Security Researcher at Coverity) and Tarjei Mandt (senior vulnerability researcher at Azimuth Security) spend their days seeking ways to compromise security in Windows. They're good guys; if they find a problem they report it, rather than exploiting it for illicit gain. At the Black Hat conference they reported on their analysis of new low-level security features in Windows 8. 

The precise details of what they discovered were barely within the realm of my comprehension. Apparently many doubly-linked lists within Windows 8 are now protected by "pool cookies." To avoid exploits that involve forcing arbitrary code or data into places it doesn't belong, Windows 8 randomizes locations for memory allocation and adds "guard pages" as needed. That sort of thing.

In between slides filled with code and intense details, Valasek and Mandt displayed a couple that anybody could understand. The column for Windows Vista was all red, meaning not secure. Windows 7 was close, with just a few green checkmarks. And of course Windows 8 displayed a column of solid green checkmarks. Expert or not, we know that green is good. 

Whether secure or not just hope we do not see this message often while using Windows 8. Comment and let us know what do you think about this article.

*by andreascy*

Microsoft Skype for Windows and Conversation Ads

Posted by Andreas Christodoulou

Description :

Skype announced that it will offer "conversation ads" for its many customers. These new display ad units will appear within the calling window of users who do not have Skype Credit or subscriptions when they're making 1:1 Skype-to-Skype audio calls using Skype for Windows.

Official Information from the Skype Blog :

"We're excited to introduce Conversations Ads as an opportunity for marketers to reach our hundreds of millions of connected users in a place where they can have meaningful conversations about brands in a highly engaging environment. Skype is already at the center of meaningful conversations, where families, friends, and colleagues spend time together."

"While on a 1:1 audio call, users will see content that could spark additional topics of conversation that are relevant to Skype users and highlight unique and local brand experiences. So, you should think of Conversation Ads as a way for Skype to generate fun interactivity between your circle of friends and family and the brands you care about. Ultimately, we believe this will help make Skype a more engaging and useful place to have your conversations each and every day."

"Here are more details about Conversation Ads :

Conversation ads are available for marketers to purchase in 55 markets where Skype is available. Users without Skype credit or subscriptions will see the ads during 1:1 Skype-to-Skype audio calls in Skype for Windows."

"Skype call quality will remain the same. Ads will be silent, non-expanding and run after we've completed our regular detailed quality checks on your connection."

Here's an example of what these new ad units will look like :

"The Skype experience is our top priority, which is why we we've taken our time testing what kind of advertising works best in the Skype environment, including Conversation Ads. As we roll out this and additional commercial experiences in the future, we will continue to test, learn and make any necessary adjustments along the way."

"We may use non-personally identifiable demographic information (e.g. location, gender and age) to target ads. This will help ensure that non-paying users see ads that are of greater interest and relevance to them. Users can opt-out of allowing Skype to use some of this non-personally identifiable information from the Privacy menu in Tools -> Options of Skype for Windows. If the user opts-out, they will still receive advertisements relevant to their location, but Skype will not use other demographic information for this purpose.

To opt-out of the use of non-personally identifiable information by our Ad Serving Partners for the purpose of serving advertisements of greater interest to you please visit Microsoft Advertising. Or you can visit the websites of the Network Advertising Initiative or the Digital Advertising Alliance, each of which provides a simple way to opt-out of ad targeting from participating companies."

Marketers interested in learning more about Skype's Conversation Ads should visit :

http://advertising.microsoft.com/skype.

More on :

http://blogs.skype.com/en/2012/06/skype_advertising_update.html

*by andreascy*

Microsoft Offer : Purchase a Qualified Windows 7 PC and Upgrade to Windows 8 Pro for €14.99

Posted by Andreas Christodoulou

Description :

Eligibility Details 

The offer is for customers (e.g. Home users, students, and enthusiasts) who purchase a qualified PC. 

A qualified PC is a new PC purchased during the promotional period with a valid Windows 7 OEM Certificate of Authenticity and product key for, and preinstalled with :

- Windows 7 Home Basic;

- Windows 7 Home Premium;

- Windows 7 Professional; or

- Windows 7 Ultimate.

The promotional price is limited to one upgrade offer per PC purchased, and a maximum limit of five upgrade offers per customer.

Key Dates

You must purchase a qualified Windows 7 PC between June 2, 2012 and January 31, 2013 to be eligible for this offer. The last day to register and order your Windows 8 upgrade is February 28, 2013.

Offer Redemption

Eligible customers must register for the Windows Upgrade Offer through this website by February 28, 2013.

After customer registration and Microsoft validation, customers will receive a registration confirmation email.

Upon the General Availability (GA) and release of Windows 8, customers will receive an email with a promotion code and instructions for purchasing and downloading the software. The promotion code will be redeemed during the upgrade ordering process to receive the promotional price.

Customers will be able to purchase a downloadable version of Windows 8 Pro. An optional installation DVD is available for an additional fee, plus shipping and any applicable taxes or duties. Customers can also choose to create their own installation media on DVD or USB media after downloading Windows 8.

This offer requires internet connectivity for registering and ordering. Note : telephone or other access charges may apply.

Upgrade Software

Each upgrade license will apply to only one PC and may only be installed on PCs with a valid base license to a qualifying operating system (i.e., Windows XP SP3, Windows Vista or Windows 7).

While the offer will be limited to eligible customers who purchase a qualified PC, the upgrade may be installed on any compatible Windows-based PC with a qualifying operating system. Visit http://windows.com for information about Windows 8 minimum requirements. Customers should visit their PC manufacturer’s website for more information about how to upgrade their PC to Windows 8, including updated software and drivers.

Microsoft Support

The purchase of Windows 8 includes 90-days of no-charge support from Microsoft. The 90-day period begins when Windows 8 installation and activation is complete (Telephone or other access charges may apply).

Offer Payment Types Available

The offer can be paid for using the following payment methods, depending upon your location:

Credit Cards :

- Visa*

- MasterCard*

- American Express

- Discover Card

- Diners Club

- JCB

Electronic Payments :

- PayPal

*in all markets

Check out FAQ and more about this offer on :

https://windowsupgradeoffer.com/en-US

*by andreascy*

Techrepublic offers free PDF with 100 Windows 8 Keyboard Shortcuts

Posted by Andreas Christodoulou

Description :

TechRepublic's Greg Shultz has compiled a set of 100 Windows 8 keyboard shortcuts that will help you more quickly and efficiently navigate Windows 8 and its new Metro User Interface.

Some of the keyboard shortcuts found in the free to download PDF are familiar to users of Windows 7, but there are also many shortcuts that are particular to Windows 8. The shortcuts will be a handy tool to have around when Windows 8 is powering your test computer or virtual machine installation.

The 100 Windows 8 keyboard shortcuts download is in PDF format and is free to download but you will need to register for a FREE TechRepublic membership.

You can print it out and keep it handy when it comes time for you to find out what Windows 8 is all about.

You can find the TechRepublic 100 Windows 8 keyboard shortcuts here :

http://www.techrepublic.com/downloads/cheat-sheet-100-windows-keyboard-shortcuts/4165829

*by andreascy*

Microsoft Applied Sciences Group : Use Windows Open Source Mayhem Application with your Kinect

Posted by Andreas Christodoulou

Description :

A freely available, open source Windows application that lets almost anyone use their computer to do stuff automatically across all their devices. Just select an event (e.g. your favorite stock hit a trigger value, a change in the weather, say something to your Kinect, etc.) and then select a reaction (e.g. advance a PowerPoint slide, turn on a lamp, start playing a movie, etc.), and within seconds, you have a connection running.

 

 

 

 

 

Download and try Mayhem here : http://makemayhem.com 

*by andreascy*

Jump Desktop (Remote Desktop) : Enjoy the freedom to work from anywhere

Posted by Andreas Christodoulou

Description :

Jump Desktop is a remote desktop application that lets you control your computer from your iPad, iPhone, Android or iPod Touch,. Compatible with both RDP and VNC, Jump Desktop is secure, reliable and very easy to set up. Features include a streamlined user interface that gives you the best possible remote desktop experience on any of your mobile devices.

Easy setup and reliable :

Jump Desktop is very easy to configure, anyone can do it! Just visit : 

http://www.jumpdesktop.com 

on your PC or Mac, click the "Setup" link and follow step-by-step instructions. You’ll be up and running in no time.

Secure and built on open standards :

Jump Desktop is a true RDP and VNC client. You don’t need to download additional software to connect to your machine if you already have RDP or VNC configured. Just enter your IP address or hostname to connect.

Powerful features :

Unleash the full power of your device when connecting to your computer. With support for multi-tasking, Bluetooth keyboards, VGA-out, copy/paste, auto-correction, AirPrint and audio streaming, Jump will help utilize your device to the max. iPad 2 users : Jump's multi-threaded rendering engine will automatically utilize the extra core on your iPad 2 to accelerate your remote desktop experience. 

IMPORTANT NOTICE : 

Audio streaming and remote printing are NOT supported when connecting to Mac OS X and PCs running Windows "Home" edition.

If you need help, visit http://support.jumpdesktop.com or send an email to the support team :

 support@jumpdesktop.com

Features :

✓ Multi-protocol : supports RDP and VNC

✓ Easy and secure setup : Automatically configure your PC or Mac for remote access using Wi-Fi and 3G without worrying about your router settings. Set up as many computers as you like and manage them all using your Google account (optional)

✓ Universal application : Works on the iPad, iPhone, Android and iPod Touch. Automatically optimizes UI based on the device

✓ Full support for iOS 4.0 multitasking : Switch to other apps without disconnecting

✓ VGA-out support: view your desktop on the big screen. Includes a unique presentation mode on the iPad, letting you turn your mouse cursor into a laser pointer.

✓ Advanced Bluetooth keyboard support : Shortcuts, function keys and arrow keys (see support.jumpdesktop.com for limitations with Bluetooth keyboard functionality)

✓ Built-in SSH tunneling for RDP and VNC connections

✓ Supports large custom screen resolution

✓ Full mouse support: left and right clicks, dragging, scrolling, precision pointer movement.

✓ Multiple gesture support - includes the ability to draw or write using your finger

✓ Copy/paste support : Transfer text to or from your computer using the pasteboard

RDP features :

✓ Tested on : Windows 2000, XP, Vista, Windows 7, Server 2003, Server 2008, Server 2008 R2, SBS Server

✓ Secure : 128-bit RDP, TLS/SSL, FIPS and NLA authentication supported

Supports 8, 16 and 24-bit colors and all RDP performance options

✓ Printing support : Print directly to a Wi-Fi printer using RDP's printer redirection feature (exclusive feature on the App Store!) Note : Requires AirPrint-compatible printer

✓ Audio streaming

✓ Console sessions

✓ International keyboard layouts

✓ Multiple monitor support on Windows 7 and above

VNC features:

✓ Tested with Mac OS X, TightVNC, RealVNC, UltraVNC, Linux (Ubuntu Remote Desktop)

✓ Secure : Supports SSH tunneling as well as SSL encryption (SSL only available when using automatic setup)

✓ 8 and 16-bit color

✓ Multiple monitor support

✓ Supported encodings : copyrect, zrle, tight, (zlib)hextile, zlib, rre, raw, desktop-resize

What's new

*by andreascy*

Mediafire Express Beta Software Application (and REST API)

Posted by Andreas Christodoulou

Description:

Today the MediaFire team announced the Beta release of MediaFire’s first software application – MediaFire Express (MFE). This Windows, Mac, and Linux compatible application makes it easier than ever to upload files from your computer to your MediaFire account.

You can download MediaFire Express from their new “Tools” section here.

MediaFire Express is currently in Beta testing and the UI is still a rough proof of concept, so expect a couple bugs if you decided to give it a try. This product helps MediaFire to test some of the new tools they are developing and lays the groundwork for future products that will be released later this year. 

MediaFire Express for Mac

MediaFire Express for Windows

MediaFire Express (Beta) Features: 

- MediaFire Express can upload files from our computer to your MediaFire account without requiring you to open your browser. 

- New users can create a MediaFire account during installation. 

- MediaFire Express users can switch between MediaFire accounts. 

- Users can select an upload destination folder from within their “My Files” folder hierarchy. 

- Users can upload a file via a right click menu on File Explorer’s (on Windows) or Finder (on the Mac). 

- Users can upload a file by dragging and dropping it on the MediaFire Express’ Drop Zone. 

- MediaFire Express avoids contributing to desktop clutter by hiding its windows when it is idle. 

- Progress bars make it easy for users to monitor file upload progress. 

- Users can invoke the MediaFire Expresses Screenshot tool from (1) the keyboard, (2) a button located on the MediaFire Express’ Drop-Zone, or via a systray menu. 

- Quickly open your “My Files” page with a click of a button. 

- MediaFire Express dynamically throttles back upload rates as necessary so as to avoid reducing Quality of Service on slow DSL links. 

- MediaFire Express’ Screenshot Tool captures images of (1) the entire desktop, (2) an application’s window, or (3) a user defined area and then (1) uploads the screenshot to your MediaFire account for sharing, (2) saves the screenshot to disk or (3) sends the image to the printer for a hardcopy. 

MediaFire REST API: 

As a side note, today they announced also the first REST API for MediaFire. Developers interested in building tools that interface with MediaFire’s cloud storage system can find out more here.

*by andreascy*

Windows 8 Consumer Preview Modifications and Customizations

Posted by Andreas Christodoulou

Description :

As we all know Windows 8 Consumer Preview (Public Beta) Build has been released, which comes with many improvements, over the previous Developer Preview Build, of Windows 8. It supports Start Screen customization and there are many improvements in Windows Explorer ribbon UI, etc.

Among these improvements there are things we still don't like and we need to change, bringing back the good old usability. Also we may need tips, tricks, and resources, to work with Windows 8 Consumer Preview.

AskVG and Andreas Christodoulou (known as andreascy) published some interesting Modifications and Customizations that you will definitely enjoy! 

AskVG :

Yet another way to remove RibbonUI from Windows 8 Explorer without Breaking Paint and Wordpad Apps

Hidden secret "Exit Explorer" Option in Windows 8 Taskbar

The Best Way to Get Rid of Windows 8 Explorer Ribbon

How to Disable New Ribbon UI and Get Old Toolbar Back in Windows 8 Explorer?

Customize New Quick Access Menu (Win+X Menu) in Windows 8 – Add, Remove, Rename or Move Shortcuts and Much More

Right Click Context Menu Adder 2.0: Free Portable Utility to Add Program Shortcuts, Website Links, Files or Folders in Windows 7 and Windows 8 Desktop Context Menu

Windows 8 allows you to remove "Favourites" from Windows Explorer Navigation Pane

Hidden Secret Trick to Enable/Activate "Aero Glass" in Windows 8 "AeroLite" Theme

How to Enable Good Old Start Button (ORB) and Start Menu in Windows 8?

Add Cascading Menu for Restart, Shut Down, Hibernate and Other Power Shortcuts in Desktop Context Menu of Windows 7 and 8

Windows 8 Hidden Secret Features and Useful Hotkeys

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Andreas Christodoulou (andreascy):

Animated ExplorerFrame V.5 for Windows 8 Consumer Preview (8250 Build)

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Are you reading this? Good. Keep going! 💪

*by andreascy*

Animated ExplorerFrame V.5 for Windows 8 Consumer Preview (8250 Build)

Posted by Andreas Christodoulou

Description :

METRO.SIMPLE.CLEAN & ANIMATED : 

- For Windows 8 Consumer Preview - Beta (8250 Build tag) x86 and x64 bit : 

Inspired and produced by : 

andreascy (http://andreascy.deviantart.com)

Check also older versions : 

V.1 for Windows 7 x32bit and x64 bit (Non SP1, SP1)

V.2 for Windows 8 M2 (7955 Build) 

V.3 for Windows 8 M3 (7989 Build)

V.4 for Windows 8 Developers Preview

1. Thank you :

First of all i want to thank all of those who inspire me, respect my work and give me the strength to continue what i do !!

2. Important :

Don’t forget to make backups of your old files first !!!! 

3. Instructions :

This is for the x32 and x64 bit System. Explorerframe.dll files that are provided are animated with 2 types of animations (rectangular and position), so select one of the two provided files and replace the old file in System32 folder of Windows directory. This can be done after taking ownership of the old file, renaming it to explorerframe.dll.bak and make the replace with the new file.

4. Taking ownership :

To take ownership of files and folders in Windows 8 Consumer Preview you can use the provided tweak that will give you the option to take ownership when you right click on a file or folder or drive. When you use take ownership on a folder, it will take ownership of all the files and subfolders inside the folder too. So simply merge the .reg file provided in the specific folder. You can also remove it if you want using the other .reg file

After this you must refresh explorer : 

BE CAREFULL :

FORGET THE OLD WAY OF REFRESHING WINDOWS EXPLORER AND I MEAN THE WAY BELOW THAT WAS WORKING UNTIL THE DEVELOPERS PREVIEW :

(a) Run task manager, stop the process of windows explorer, make a 

new task, write explorer and hit enter or go to run command and write "TSKILL EXPLORER"

THIS WON’T WORK NOW AS IT WILL FREEZE YOUR PC AND EXPLORER WON’T STOP FROM RUNNING SO DO THIS..AFTER THE REPLACE OF THE EXPLORERFRAME.DLL JUST RESTART THE PC..AFTER THE RESTART CHECK THE ANIMATIONS..TRUST ME IT WILL WORK!!!!!! ;)

Animations can be shown on the below things :

(a) Windows explorer icons (any preview type selected it has a different animation style)

(b) Shell texts

5. Support - Testing - Bugs :

Fully tested by me and proved its stability on its fast animation speeds especially if your PC is well built and fast. Bugs not found and i believe this version will be stable too as previous builds like Developers Preview, Windows 7 etc..

6. Download Link :

http://andreascy.deviantart.com/art/Animated-ExplorerFrame-V-5-Released-287879053

Enjoy it and thx again for all this support! 

P.S : For any problems, questions etc. feel free to contact with me and tell me what went wrong. 

ATTENTION : 

This is a registered and copyright property© copyright - All Rights Reserved. 

MCN : W3PJ7 - ADRL5 - FSTRH (MyFreeCopyright.com Registered & Protected) 

*by andreascy*