From the Mailbag
EVAN is looking for Linux-compatible alternatives to Adobe Lightroom. What do I recommend?
I am NOT an expert on photo editing, so I asked a friend who is an amateur photographer and Linux user. He gave two recommendations . . .
****************
CARRIE has a badly infected Windows laptop. She hit up Google and found some step-by-step malware removal guides. Can you really remove a virus "by hand" like that?
I do NOT recommend it. I stopped doing "cleanings" way back in 2007 because it does not work reliably anymore. Most of the malware that I encounter now is specifically designed to make detection and removal as difficult as possible. Here are some of the tricks the bad guys use . . .
installing rootkits
infecting critical system files so that you break Windows by removing them
deleting or infecting all of your Windows System Restore points
creating and/or infecting hidden partitions on the hard drive
disabling and/or masquerading as an antivirus
You cannot compete with these kinds of tactics. If you miss even a single infected file, then the malware will come right back as soon as you restart the computer! The only way to be absolutely sure your computer is clean is by doing a Wipe and Reload.
Back up your data.
Format the hard drive.
Reinstall Windows from a source known to be good.
Restore the data.
This is a time-consuming process but you will have a clean computer when it is done - guaranteed. I do it all the time.
****************
DARRELL is a long-haul truck driver and uses open wi-fi access points every day. The problem is that some of the businesses with the best wi-fi do not have adequate parking for his rig. Is there a way to extend the range so that he can pick up the signal from outside the parking lot?
Yes, you will need a special antenna. Check out these Web sites and look for an "RV Wi-fi Antenna".
****************
Keep the questions coming!
Getting in touch with me is easy . . .
Via Phone - 1 (443) 837-5471
Via Email - CONTACT ME
Via Twitter - @MONTechSvc
Commentaires