June 19, 2013

3 Free RSS Feed Readers and Short Review

July 19, 2011 By Leave a Comment
A highly simplified version of the RSS feed ic...

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Here are three free RSS feed readers and news aggregators that are free downloads for Windows programs. RSS feed readers are now the latest technology in keeping up with regularly updated information as it lets the users follow news, antivirus software, newsletters, blogs, websites, etc. 

Most of the best free news aggregatorsthat are compatible with Windows are absolutely free. However they are not all the same, so here is a brief review of three of them here. 

  1. Omea Reader  - finds items really fast, integrates RSS feeds, websites, forums and Usenet news, good tools for flagging, annotating and search folders. Great tool for seamless integration of bookmarked pages that can be read while offline. It doesn’t support email messages or IM but the user can save searches to use later and the program designates items to custom categories. It can get a bit cluttered looking with all the features.
  2. Awasu Personal Edition – a feature-laden RSS feed reader that can be made a powerful aggregator when enhanced with plug-ins and hooks. It has excellent notifications with customizable display options and lets the user create categories for easy organization. It doesn’t allow the user to saved searches, though, and it doesn’t put news in cohesive context or threaded items. The personal edition limits the number of feeds and plug-ins.
  3. Google Reader – very user-friendly with a flexible labeling function. Easy to share but could be a bit more helpful in organization and categories if some steps were automated. Plenty of category label freedom. Accessible from any computer and the user can use keyboard shortcuts for faster working.
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Charlie Miller Breaks Into MacBook via the Battery

July 12, 2011 By Leave a Comment
CUPERTINO, CA - OCTOBER 20: Two new MacBook Ai...

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Charlie Miller, famous for his work on Apple products, has found a way to hack into a MacBook. He goes in through the battery which has it’s own monitoring circuit that tells the OS what the battery’s status is. 

The MacBook’s batteries are shipped with a password set by default on the chips, so anyone knowing the password could control the battery’s firmware and cause one of a plethora of results, including wrecking the battery (catching it on fire) or installing malware. Not just any malware; one that reinstalls itself every time the OS is booted. 

Apple Needs an App to Fix the Battery Password 

Miller explained that these batteries were not designed for people to mess with them; they come ready to leave them alone to function for the normal life of the battery.  What Miller is saying is that it’s totally possible for people to wreak havocon MacBook owners. Not good news. 

A user could go through a myriad of processes trying to fix the machine. He could put a brand new hard drive in, reinstall brand new software and flash the BIOS, just to be re-attack every time the laptop reboots. It could take someone forever to figure out, and if they never looked at the battery to be the gateway, they’d likely never find it. 

There’s only one way to fix a computer with this balderdash, and that’s to remove and replace the laptop’s battery. Simple. 

At the 2011 Black Hat security conference Miller will present what he’s found and introduce a new program that can change the battery’s password into a random string.

 

 

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Nokia Looking to get Back in the Spotlight

July 4, 2011 By Leave a Comment
MeeGo Handset Launcher from MeeGo 1.1 “Day 1”

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Nokia is looking to luxuriate in the public’s eye with the world’s first ever MeeGo device; the new Nokia N9. The world’s first Maemo device was the N900 and Nokia has made an announcementthat this is the last MeeGo device Nokia will use. That‘s confusing because it means the N9 phone will be obsolete before we get it. 

MeeGo is a Linux-based open source OS developed by Intel and Nokia. Introduced in February of 2010 at the Mobile World Congress, this sleek new OS is being put into thinner phones. 

Take a Look at the Nokia N9’s Specs:
  • Video recording with true 16:9 720p capabilities
  • quad-band GSM & penta-band WCDMA at just 14.4 Mbps
  • Bluetooth 2.1
  • NFC chip & A-GPS
  • 802.11 b/g/n WiFi
  • 1GB RAM
  • 8 megapixel Carl Zeiss camera with wide-angle shooting, dual LED flash and a front facing camera for video calls and F2.2 aperture
  • 3.9-inch AMOLED touchscreen (854 x 480 screen resolution)
  • PowerVR SGX530 GPU
  • 16GB or 64GB onboard memory
  • MeeGo 1.2 Harmattan operating system
  • 1 GHz Arm Cortex A8 OMAP3630 processor
  • 1450 mAh battery
The size of the phone is 116.454mm by 61.2mm by 7.6mm and it only weighs 135 grams. The new Nokia N9’s thinness and latest technology make the phone the newest must-have on the market. A formidable opponent in the high tech device competition, the N9 is predicted to be the new smart phone for those in the know. 

It’s too bad that this is the last MeeGo technology they’re going to use, and they didn’t say why this decision was made. It sure would be interesting to know; maybe they’ll change their minds.
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Citadel: A Turnkey Groupware Server Solution

March 7, 2011 By Leave a Comment

Groupware can help your organization coordinate and schedule its work better.  This is a collaborative software that can allow users to work together – no matter the location – through the Internet or the corporate Internet system. However, better groupware solutions can improve your workers’ ability to function. Multiple Linux groupware servers are available; these platforms offer the ability to use popular email applications, messaging functionality, and organizational tools. One of the turnkey Linux solutions is the Citadel/UX server.

Citadel is a complete, open-source collaboration suite that offers a groupware server and an online PIM suite. Citadel also had been popular for use as a bulletin board system.  Over time, the developers have added shared calendars, mailing lists, instant messenger services, and a wiki. Other features of Citadel groupware are included email filtering services, built-in listserv, RSS feeds and a high-performance server engine.

The architecture of Citadel is also very versatile; it is organized in concepts called floors and rooms. You can use the floors and rooms to organize the server to suit your organization’s needs.  A floor can consist of any number of rooms and each room can be different things like an email folder, a calendar, task list or a bulletin board. A room may also host several of these functions at the same time.

Installation for Citadel is very simple – you can use the Easy Install option, use either an Ubuntu or Debian package or download it via a VM appliance. Another benefit is that this system is easy to distribute across multiple servers which increase the options for scalability.

Users can access the Citadel services through a web-based interface or through other clients like Outlook, Mozilla Thunderbird, or Evolution. Citadel also offers great support through support forums, administration manuals, and frequently asked questions applications. The groupware itself is also updated regularly which makes it a good option for your organization.

It is free to download and use.

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Fixing Your MacBook By Reinstalling The Software

January 22, 2011 By Leave a Comment

There are times when you’re computer starts to act a little strange. This could mean that something is wrong with your system’s software. You might even have to reinstall your software in order to fix the problem. This is OK, there’s nothing to worry since this is an easy problem to solve.

When you purchased your Mac computer it came with the original software disks for Mac OS X and simple instructions you can follow to reinstall your Mac OS X software.

If you feel like you should, be sure to backup all our data on an external hard drive or CD. When you reinstall the software you could lose everything on your computer.

Once everything is backed up, insert you OS X install CD and double click on “install Mac OS X” when the option pops up. Click on “restart” when the next windows opens, which should say “install Mac OS X.” This is going to install the software onto your computer.

You’re going to need to type in your username and password when the box pops up requesting you to do so.

Choose your language preference when your computer restarts. Then hit the blue arrow to continue.  You’ll then be asked to agree to the TOS on your computer’s license agreement. Click continue.

Next click the hard drive as the destination for the installation.

You need to choose what type of installation you want. “Archive and Install” will install the newest version of OS X onto your computer. It will leave your old files and move them over to the folder called “previous system.”

If you want to save all your files and accounts choose, “preserve user and network settings.”

If you choose “erase and install” if you want to completely wipe out your computer, removing all your files, folders and data.

Now let your computer install the software. This can take several minutes to several hours.

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Cloud Computing – What is It?

December 9, 2010 By Leave a Comment
Diagram showing overview of cloud computing in...
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It seems that one of the most popular terms you hear getting tossed about these days is cloud computing.  You hear it on the radio.  You see television commercials mentioning how people are working in the Cloud.  You see advertisements on your favorite websites touting the advantages of working in the Cloud.  So just what the heck is this Cloud?  Where is this Cloud?  Why do we need to be working in it?  And why is it so important that it is actually capitalized as in Cloud instead of lowercased?  Read on and we will discuss some of the basics about the Cloud and try to answer some of those questions.  Why the capital letter though?  That might have to wait for another time.
Okay, so as not to be confused any longer, let us start with a simple definition.  Simply put cloud computing is a group of computing resources and services used in conjunction with each other and available and accessed on the web.  These resources and services are inter-related and this interrelation resembles a cloud when diagramed.  Think of a virtual office where you will have a copy room, a break room, various cubicles and a receptionist room.  All of them form an office (virtually in this instance) but all provide services and resources that work together to help you get your work done.
Make sense?  Good, then let’s move on and look at some other of its aspects.  To help with the virtual resources and services, cloud storage and servers would connect and share the information in the cloud.  These can be thought of as the infrastructure of the cloud.  Like a virtual office, cloud computing is a less expensive option when you cannot afford all the services of a physical computing infrastructure.  So now that you know what it is, come on up and join us in the Clouds.
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Seeking Open Sources for Los Angeles Apartments

December 7, 2010 By Leave a Comment

Software is not the convenience it should be — this is a truth you know too well, having often experienced the failed applications, the programs that never offer what you need. Source codes always refuse you, trapped within their own limitations. They can’t be modified; they can’t be changed. Instead they simply do what their manufacturers declare, leaving you with frustrations. Your computer isn’t what it should be. Your time isn’t the comfort you crave.

Something must change — and Linux seems suddenly appealing. Linux systems can make your need to find Los Angeles apartments easier. With a Linux system, you can search the internet faster looking for Los Angeles  apartments

While all in the surrounding Los Angeles apartments may cling to their Microsoft products (and the subsequent worries), you understand that software is meant to serve you. Your desires are to be recognized; and so you look to Linux for its open sources.

Simply explained: an open source code is the unprotected language of a specific piece of software. This language can be accessed by the individual and can then be rewritten. A program’s purpose can be shifted as needed, allowing for complete freedom.

This revolutionary idea is one you now covet. You’re tired of applications that can’t meet your expectations. You’re lamenting every new software you must buy (simply because one can never satisfy). Linux offers the advantage you’ve been waiting for.

Through open sources you can accomplish:

One: Sustainability. Defining programs to your needs ensures that they will last. Each is tailored to you and offers constancy.

Two: Cost Efficiency. Dollars can be spared when you’re not having to seek out new software again and again. You can instead redesign what you already have.

Three: Creativity. Discover your own abilities as you manipulate codes. Your computer can become a tribute to clever programs — each created by you.

Linux is not the common choice. This does not, however, make it less of a convenience. It’s the discovery of freedom and the evolution of all applications.

It works.

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Oracle VM Server on its Way for X86

December 6, 2010 By Leave a Comment
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Force10 Networks recently announced plans to create an Oracle VM server for use with the x86 virtualization. This plan will network the Oracle Linux and its resources using an Open Automation Framework. In doing so, Force10 will be able to harness more of the power of the technologies behind Oracle.

Force10 is one of Oracle’s gold-level partners, which means it is very familiar with the system. It plans to improve flexibility and efficiency through the network. The program will specifically benefit data centers, but it may have other applications, as well.

The network is currently in development, but Force10 has stated it will include architectural and management tools to allow administrators access to the infrastructure. You can think of this as being similar to other virtual machines.

One of the main benefits to the integration is the improved quality of service and enhanced security. Under the Oracle VM server, the x86 virtualization will allow administrators the ability to make provisions that will automatically transfer security measure to virtual machines based on local server resources.

Oracle works with partners like Force10 as a way to leverage its system to improve service to joint customers, or for those individuals likely to use products and service from both companies. By doing this, it makes it easier to deploy new products. According to the senior director of Linux, virtualization, and MySQL, Monica Kumar, the relationship allows the companies to keep up with changes in business priorities for their clients.

At the heart of Force10′s plan is its Open Automation Framework. This element works with Force10′s Operating System software (FTOS) and allows a data center to streamline information. Built-in programs allow the data center to respond to applications that change. Another feature of the system is the ability to allocate real-time workload.

As Force10 continues with development, it hopes to add additional features that will appeal to mid-size businesses.

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Should You Get a Degree?

December 1, 2010 By Leave a Comment

If you’re a work at home mom (WAHM), you’re in a great position to go back to school if you want. But should you? Here are a few benefits of getting a degree as a WAHM:

- More opportunities. Getting a degree can provide you with not only more work opportunities, but more work at home ones as well. The more schooling you have, the better your credentials and the more likely you are to get advancements and other job offers from home.

- Better pay. It’s no secret that the more education you have, the more valuable employees tend to view you and your skills. This often results in higher pay, whether you work from an office or from home.

- Plenty of options. Moms who work from home typically have flexible schedules. This means they can attend either an online school or traditional campus school and complete their degrees on their own schedule.

If you do want to go back to school but are unsure of where to start, here are some tips:

Decide if you want to go online or to a campus. A website like earnmydegree.com will give you an overview of various programs and schools best suited to your interests and needs.

Make sure the program is accredited. A program that is not accredited ends up being a waste of both time and money.

Check to see what type of financial aid they accept. Some schools don’t accept federal student aid, so make sure you know exactly how they take tuition before you sign up.

Always talk to an enrollment or guidance counselor. They can help you make sure you’re getting the right classes so you can finish your degree as quickly as possible.

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New Partnership Opportunity With Convirture

November 11, 2010 By Leave a Comment

If you’ve been looking for a way to get into the virtualization game and you have some capital ready to go, you may want to consider Convirture. The San Francisco-based company recently announced a need for partners, and it has started a Partner Program for OEMs. The program will also accept distributors, resellers, and solution providers.

Convirture makes managing software for virtualization software, specifically KVM-base and Xen. Founded in 2006, the company provides an alternative management tool to VMware’s Vcenter tool. Convirture’s tool is Linux-based.

According to the announcement from CEO Arsalan Farooq, Convirture is ready to take on VMware, which has been the industry leader to date in the virtualization game. New competition in the market is great news for consumers. It means more competition for prices, and it will force companies to work on improving solutions in order to capture a larger share of the market.

Convirture decided to get into the game by using Linux’s virtualization technology with enterprise-grade management tools. To generate demand for the product, the company released a version in 2006 under an open source agreement. This resulted in over 30,000 downloads and has encompassed several versions of the product.

Now, Convirture is ready to boost sales for its commercial product, Convirt 2.0. The virtualization program has two versions. In Convirt 2.0 Enterprise, users will get a system geared toward cloud or hosted models. It will feature delegated control, resource limiting, and multi-tenant security. With Convirt 2.0 Enterprise Starter Edition, users will get virtualization for SMBs or enterprises in pre-production.

At the beginning of 2010, Convirture began selling the commercial versions directly; however, the increase in demand has led to the decision to take on partners. Craig Bauman, who is the acting VP of sales and business development, will manage the new partnership program. With its global reach, Convirture will also be looking to expand with worldwide partnerships.

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