by Tina Gasperson
Java Runtime Environment (JRE) is the application that allows Java programs to run on your computer, whether online or offline. The JRE executes JAVA code and makes sure that whatever application you want to run looks and feels right on your system, whatever your operating system version and whatever hardware you have.
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Extension: docx
What is it? Microsoft Word 2007 document
Where’s it from? Docx is the default file format used by Microsoft Word 2007, part of the Microsoft Office 2007 productivity suite. It is based on the XML Web page standard and is compressed using the ZIP standard to save disk space.
How do I use it? Use Microsoft Office 2007; or an earlier version of Office updated with the Office Compatibility Pack for Word, Excel, and PowerPoint 2007 File Formats; or any of several free online Office 2007 docx file conversion services.
Can I safely delete or move it? Yes.
Can it be dangerous? Yes. Docx files can contain macro viruses. Use antivirus software.
–David Hakala
by David Hakala
An ounce of prevention is worth a pound of cure, as they say. Many people fail to take the time to secure their computers against malware, only to lose many days struggling to eradicate viruses, Trojans, pop-up ad servers, and other vicious things from their computers. The irreplaceable data they lose hurts even more. The best cure for infection is to avoid getting it in the first place. But don’t go overboard with automated protection, and don’t rely on it alone.
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by Tina Gasperson
Up until a few years ago, computer monitors were all of the cathode ray tube (CRT) variety. You may still have one – if your monitor takes up most of your desk real estate and it take a furniture dolly to move it, it’s a CRT. The benefits of using an LCD monitor may justify the expense of buying one – and if your CRT breaks, you’ll have no choice, since suppliers no longer ship CRTs. If you’re considering a move to one of those sleek, flat LCD monitors, here’s what you need to know before you get out the checkbook.
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Extension: dup
What is it? Duplicate Backup File
Where’s it from? Many programs create dup files so you will have a spare in case the original gets corrupted.
How do I use it? The program that created the dup file uses it.
Can I safely delete or move it? Yes.
Can it be dangerous? No
–David Hakala
by Gabe Goldberg
When calling businesses, it’s common to hear the announcement, “This call may be monitored or recorded for quality assurance.” Everyone ignores or accepts the fact that a supervisor may listen in or evaluate the call after it’s finished.
But wouldn’t it be helpful to occasionally have access to a recorded call? For example, I might like to replay a complex call with a doctor, teacher, or lawyer, or I might refer back to a customer service call if I feel that promises haven’t been kept.
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Extension: bin
What is it? Binary File
Where’s it from? Many programs create bin files. They contain data intended for use by programs, not humans. You will see just random, strange characters if you open a bin file with a text editor.
How do I use it? Let the program that created it use it.
Can I safely delete or move it? Leave it alone, some program needs it right where it is.
Can it be dangerous? By itself, a bin file can’t do anything to your computer because it doesn’t “run.” But it may be used by an executable malicious program.
— David Hakala
by Tina Gasperson
File shortcuts are very handy and efficient ways to locate and open files and applications on your Windows computer. All the items under your Start menu are shortcuts, and a great number of the icons on your desktop are also shortcuts. Did you know that you can create your own custom shortcuts? It is quick, easy, and painless, and will help you to customize your desktop computing experience.
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by David Hakala
Using a wireless mouse is one way to reduce clutter. Also, you don’t have to worry about where to put your computer relative to the mouse. In fact, if you also get a wireless keyboard and a laptop “desk,” you can slack on the couch with your computer in the entertainment center, displaying your work on the giant wide-screen TV! Here are a few tips for choosing and using a wireless mouse.
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by Nathaniel Poor
You may be a dedicated Mac user, but sometimes you might want to run Windows. Maybe because the huge majority of the computers in the world use it and you feel pressured. Maybe there’s an application at work you would like to run at home. For some reason, you want to run Windows, but all you have is your Mac. And you can!
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