Virus protection

Q: I am running Spybot, Avast and PC Firewall. Do I need any additional protection for my laptop? Read more..

Beware NoAdware

Q: I loaded the supposedly free program NoAdware to scan for spyware and it found heaps of spying programs that my other scanners did not. But to remove the spyware I was asked to pay money. I felt this was a scam and tried to remove it but it won’t uninstall. Read more..

Windows firewall

Q: I have had issues with the Windows Firewall blocking updates from AVG Anti-Virus 8. Windows XP updates now won’t download since I changed from the free version of Zone Alarm back to Windows’ own Firewall. What is the best free firewall with outbound traffic blocking and filtering that doesn’t require too much technical knowledge? Read more..

Consumer beware

Q. I bought a computer accessory from Harvey Norman. It was faulty when I took it home and I went straight back and requested a new one or a refund. I was told I had to deal with the manufacturer to claim warranty and was pointed to the “small print” on the sales docket. Is this right? Read more..

Broadband

Q. I was recently told by two ISPs I can’t have ADSL2+ at home and yet Telstra says I can have it (a very expensive option) because they have Next G. Can you explain what this means and whether there is any other way? Read more..

Windows 7

Q: Windows 7 has been receiving a lot of publicity because it will run on older PCs and lower powered Intel and Atom netbooks. But I was told that it is based on Windows Vista that won’t run on these devices. Read more..

Store-bought computer

Q: I have just purchased a brand-name PC with Vista Home Premium preloaded from a national store. There is no original Vista disk supplied, just instructions for re-installing from the hard disk in case something goes wrong. Read more..

Uninstall problem programs

Q: I have a program that will not uninstall using Add/Remove Programs in Windows Control Panel. I was told to “edit the registry” but I haven’t a clue what this means. Read more..

Cheap laptop computers

Q: I’ve noticed laptop computers for sale for less than $700 at some stores. What is the catch? Read more..

Upgrade may be best

Q: I have a four-year-old ASUS/Intel Pentium 4 computer with Windows XP Pro and Office 2003. I use it for email, internet and some photo editing. It has done well but has slowed. What should I buy? Read more..