Social Networking: Marketing Your Business Online Seminar On September 24th
Thursday, September 10, 2009
Don't miss my upcoming seminar, Social Networking: Marketing Your Business Online, sponsored by the Cary Grove Chamber Of Commerce. It will be held Thursday, September 24th, 2009, from 11:30am-1pm (registration includes box lunch) at the Fox River Grove, Illinois, Village Hall, 305 Illinois St. Click here for downloadable flyer (PDF).
Have you been asked to get LinkedIn? Can you make business contacts through Facebook or MySpace? Should you Twitter your business? Join us for this computer series workshop on using social networking to market your business. To register, contact the Cary Grove Chamber at (847) 639-2800.
For a full list of my computer classes for PC and Mac, please see my events calendar. And be sure to sign up for FREE Tech Tips by email.
Hope to see you there!
Posted byTriona Guidry at 10:13 AM 0 comments
Labels: beginners, blogs, computer classes, Internet, small business, social networking, twitter, web
What I'm Doing With Twitter And Tech Tips
Thursday, August 27, 2009
I thought I'd take a moment to explain to my regular readers how I'm using Twitter in relation to Tech Tips.
Most of you already know that I offer Tech Tips in two formats. There is the email version, where I publish my newsletter on the 15th of the month and also provide notification of new blog entries as they become available. My blog is where I add tidbits pertinent to the computer needs of small businesses and consumers.
Some of you may not know that I am a freelance writer as well as a computer consultant. To that end, my Twitter account contains a little of both. In addition to providing computer news and links to relevant articles, I will also be including updates about freelancing, writing, Web 2.0 and my primary genres, science fiction and fantasy.
If you're interested, come join me on Twitter. If you prefer your Tech Tips straight up, you may wish to stick with my blog and email list. Don't forget that email subscribers receive bonus product reviews and other information. As always it's completely FREE, and your email address will never be sold to third parties. You can also find my Twitter updates (tweets) in the upper right-hand corner of the Tech Tips blog.
And if you're curious about Twitter but not sure how to start, come to my Social Networking: Marketing Your Business Online class on September 24th. You're always welcome to follow me on Twitter to get your feet wet. I promise to give you a stress-free introduction to the world of social networking.
Posted byTriona Guidry at 2:58 PM 0 comments
Labels: alerts, beginners, computer classes, consumers, Internet, small business, twitter
Emergency Microsoft Patches Issued Tomorrow
Monday, July 27, 2009
Microsoft is releasing a pair of out-of-sequence security patches tomorrow, to fix vulnerabilities in Internet Explorer and Visual Studio. It's unusual for Microsoft to stray from their regular Patch Tuesday cycle (the second Tuesday of the month). While the Visual Studio patch will affect a small percentage of computers, the Internet Explorer patch applies to any computer running Windows.
To make sure you get these updates, either turn Automatic Updates on (bearing in mind the pros and cons of doing so) or visit update.microsoft.com to check for these latest patches.
Software patches (also called updates) are fixes for bugs that could allow malicious software to enter your computer. By staying current on these patches, you improve your computer's defense.
Don't forget to subscribe to Tech Tips (free!) for the latest computer news plus bonus tips, tricks and product reviews.
Posted byTriona Guidry at 8:28 AM 0 comments
Labels: alerts, antivirus, consumers, emergency, Internet, internet explorer, malware, pc, security, small business, spyware, viruses, web, windows
Windows 7 And Mac OS X Snow Leopard
Wednesday, July 15, 2009
Posted byTriona Guidry at 3:12 PM 0 comments
Labels: apple, consumers, mac, microsoft, pc, small business, windows
Most Dangerous Web Search Terms
Tuesday, July 14, 2009
A recent McAfee study (pdf) reveals that searching for certain keywords carries a greater risk of being infected with malware.
McAfee found maximum risks associated with the word, not surprisingly, "free". Studying the U.S. in particular, words associated with celebrities or song lyrics demonstrate how malware gloms onto recent headlines and trends. "Screensavers", "free music downloads" and "free ringtones" remain popular ways to lure you into clicking malicious links. And the keywords "search engine marketing" or "search engine optimization" have become increasingly linked to sites that deliver malware or scareware antivirus scams. In short, just because a link comes up when you search for a particular keyword doesn't mean that link is where you want to go.
I recommend free programs like McAfee SiteAdvisor or the even better LinkExtend for Firefox as plug-ins for your Web browser. These programs rank search results to give you a better idea of whether or not the links are malicious. But your safest bet is to type Web addresses manually, for example going directly to www.snopes.com instead of searching for it by keyword.
For bonus tips, tricks, and other computer help, subscribe to the free email version of Tech Tips.
Posted byTriona Guidry at 9:18 AM 0 comments
Labels: antivirus, consumers, Internet, malware, scareware, small business, social engineering, spyware, viruses, web
Protect Yourself From Zombie Computers
Thursday, July 9, 2009
There's a lot of talk in the news about the recent cyber attacks on U.S. and South Korean servers. Computers in both countries were disrupted through what are called "denial of service" attacks, when hackers use infected computers called zombies to slow or crash target servers. Zombie computers are often owned by small businesses or consumers who are completely unaware they are infected. I've mentioned zombie computers before (here and here) but it's important to reiterate how you can protect yourself and others.
Your best protection is prevention. Be sure to run a reliable antivirus program like those below (beware of the fakes!) as well as anti-spyware software. Security suites offer a way to combine those protections with a firewall to block unwanted network probes. Regular software updates are also key to keeping your computer protected. You can learn more about these techniques in my article on cybercrime. I am teaching a class on How To Protect Yourself From Cybercrime on Monday July 20th from 9:30am-11:30am in Cary, Illinois (click here for more details and registration information).
Antivirus software for PCs:
- Trend Micro
- AVG (free)
- Avast (free)
- McAfee
- (But not Norton; here's why.)
- Malwarebytes (free)
- AdAware (free)
- Spybot (free)
For bonus tips, tricks, and other computer help, subscribe to the free email version of Tech Tips.
Posted byTriona Guidry at 11:01 AM 0 comments
Labels: alerts, antivirus, consumers, cybercrime, firewalls, Internet, mac, malware, security, small business, spyware, viruses, windows
FTC Slaps Fake "Win Antivirus" Scammers On Wrist
Tuesday, June 30, 2009
The FTC has agreed to settle with some of the scammers responsible for the repulsive "Win Antivirus" scam, in a decision that's effectively a slap on the wrist.
I doubt this will result in any kind of serious setback for the fake antivirus software industry. $116,000 is chump change for criminals who charge consumers $50 and up for these bogus products, which are known by various names including Win Antivirus, XP Antivirus, WinFixer, DriveCleaner, and ErrorSafe. Check out my previous entries here, here and here for more details on how insidious these programs can be.
There is more money still being made out there at your expense, so be sure the programs you're using are the real deal. I hope the FTC will continue to pursue and prosecute the miscreants responsible for such scams.
For bonus tips, tricks, and other computer help, subscribe to the free email version of Tech Tips.
Posted byTriona Guidry at 4:48 PM 0 comments
Labels: antivirus, consumers, malware, scareware, small business, spyware, viruses
Search Engine Optimization
Monday, June 15, 2009
Search engine optimization is the fine art of getting your web site or blog ranked highly on Internet search engines and directories. Keywords are your key to improving your online marketing.
What is the purpose of your web site or blog? Is it to advertise your business? Attract customers? Provide an online presence for your company? Make a list of what you are trying to accomplish, then another of the words people might use to find you. It's important to think like your customers and avoid jargon. When I write about computers I do my best to keep the technobabble to a minimum. People won't be searching for "restarting a Windows XP workstation," they'll look for "computer help".
Keywords can be inserted into the code of your web site, where search engines will notice them. You should also include a brief description of your site's purpose, or what I like to describe as your mission statement. Think of it as the electronic version of your 30-second elevator speech. This is what's displayed when people see your site on Google or Yahoo. By using keywords common to your business, your rankings will improve.
The real secret to reaching number one on search engines is, of course, money. Google, Yahoo and other search engines have paid programs you can use to boost your ratings. As with any marketing, you have to watch your dollars wisely. You might want to experiment with paid rankings but be sure to compare effectiveness to cost.
Next month I'll teach you about Troubleshooting Wireless Networks. Don't forget to subscribe to Tech Tips for bonus tips and tricks plus the latest computer news.
Posted byTriona Guidry at 11:07 AM 0 comments
Labels: articles, blogs, Internet, small business, web
Blogs For Business
How can blogs help you market your business? Every day I meet people who are finding innovative ways to get the most out of blogs, or regularly updated web sites that integrate articles and reader commentary.
Blogs can help you reach new customers while staying in touch with old ones. They say you have to contact someone seven times before he or she remembers you. Blogs make it easy to keep people informed about news and trends in your industry. My Tech Tips blog is an example of a small business blog. It helps me maintain a rapport with existing and potential customers by providing value-added information. You can also improve your customer service and cut down on staff time by using your blog to answer your company's Frequently Asked Questions.
Your business blog is part of your online brand. When you think of Coca-Cola or Nike, those names instantly bring to mind familiar products. You want your customers to associate your name with good feelings about the products and services you sell. Remember, to get you have to give. By providing free and pertinent information, you'll establish yourself as a leader in your field.
Marketing your blog isn't as hard as you think. Send an announcement to your customers, put links in your email signature, and be sure to mention it when networking. This month's Tech Tip will tell you how to optimize your web site or blog to be more findable on Internet search engines.
In July you'll get a special preview of the new operating systems, Windows 7 And Mac OS X Snow Leopard. Don't forget to subscribe to Tech Tips for bonus tips and tricks plus the latest computer news.
Posted byTriona Guidry at 11:02 AM 0 comments
Labels: articles, blogs, Internet, small business, web
Symantec, McAfee Penalized For Antivirus Auto-Renewals
Thursday, June 11, 2009
If you've ever wondered if you're being forced into antivirus auto-renewals, you're not alone. New York Attorney General Andrew Cuomo's office has reached a settlement with Symantec and McAfee over their automatic software renewal practices.
I think this is great news for consumers and businesses. There has been too much confusion over auto-renewals. Some people are not aware that purchasing antivirus software via credit card typically signs you up for auto-renewal. Others have struggled to cancel their auto-renewals thanks to aggressive policies on the part of vendors like Symantec and McAfee. When purchasing antivirus products online, I frequently find myself disabling the auto-renew option only to find it re-enabled before I reach the checkout. While I applaud Symantec and McAfee's attempts to make sure people are up-to-date on their antivirus, forced auto-renewal is not the solution.
This is also a good time to remind folks that it's better to upgrade your antivirus software each year instead of simply paying for another year's subscription. While I'm still recommending other antivirus programs over Norton, those of you who do use Symantec and McAfee products can hope that your next auto-renew process will be more user-friendly.
From the press release:
Attorney General Andrew M. Cuomo today announced a settlement with computer security software vendors Symantec (NYSE: SYMC) and McAfee (NYSE: MFE) after the companies renewed customers’ software subscriptions without the customers’ knowledge or authorization. Under the Attorney General’s settlement, both companies will make detailed disclosures to consumers about subscription terms and renewal, and each will pay $375,000 in penalties and costs.
“Companies cannot play hide the ball when it comes to the fees consumers are being charged. Consumers have a right to know what they are paying, especially when they are unwittingly agreeing to renewal fees that will not appear on their credit card bill for months. Symantec and McAfee - two of the nation’s largest vendors of computer security software - will now have to be clear and up-front with their customers when it comes to renewal fees. In other words, no more hide the ball with renewal fees.”
Posted byTriona Guidry at 9:42 AM 1 comments
Labels: antivirus, consumers, mac, security, small business, spyware, windows
The Admin Account
Wednesday, April 15, 2009
One of the great mysteries of computers is the admin account. In the past computers were standalone; that is, used by only one person. Today's computers assume multiple people will be using them, even PCs with a single owner. This means having an overriding account to manage the others. Referred to as administrator, owner or root, it has complete control over your computer.
In reality your computer has two account types, administrator and standard (or limited). Limited users don't have full control; they can't alter system settings or make other changes. Unfortunately, in a holdover from the standalone days, that often means they can't do real-world tasks like burning CDs or updating antivirus either. For this reason most folks simply use their computers under the admin account. Indeed, computer stores configure consumers to use the admin account by default. When folks do use multiple accounts (say for themselves and their kids), those accounts often have full administrative rights.
Why is this important? Because every virus and Trojan horse wants admin access. It's why they will do anything to get you to click on bad links, including trick you into thinking your computer won't work properly if you don't. (We're going to talk more about how to spot fake links in May's Tech Tip Of The Month.) And some viruses don't require you to do anything at all. If you browse the wrong Web page and are using an admin account, your computer is, in the vernacular, pwned.
Your best bet is to use limited accounts when you can, administrative ones if you must, and security software to keep tabs on what your computer is doing at all times. To create limited accounts, go to Start, Control Panel, Users and Groups (Windows), or Apple menu, System Preferences, Accounts on a Mac. In my experience Windows Vista limited accounts work better than those in Windows XP, and Mac limited accounts work better than PC ones.
In May we're going to talk about the dollar figures behind Profiting From Cybercrime. If you have any computer questions click Comments below this article, and don't forget to subscribe to the email version of Tech Tips for bonus tips and product reviews.
Posted byTriona Guidry at 10:49 AM 0 comments
Labels: admin account, consumers, mac, security, small business, windows
Patch Your Printer To Prevent Data Theft
Monday, February 9, 2009
A recent vulnerability discovered in some Hewlett-Packard LaserJet printer models serves as a reminder that even your printer can be used against you.
This particular advisory concerns black and white LaserJet 2410, 2420, 2430, 4250, 4350, 9040, 9050 series, and HP Color LaserJet 4730mfp, HP Color LaserJet 9500mfp and HP 9200C Digital Sender. A bug in the administrative interface could be used to obtain any document that has been sent to the printer. Many printers today keep digital copies of what they've printed, a potential security risk for any business. To patch such vulnerabilities you need to update your printer's firmware, or the little bit of software that lives inside the printer itself.
This is a good time to remind all of you that you should check for new printer software on a regular basis. Your printer could easily be the subject of an advisory similar to this one. To learn if there is updated software for your printer, visit the manufacturer's web site and look under "support."
Posted byTriona Guidry at 11:22 AM 0 comments
Labels: alerts, hp, laserjet, security, small business
Viruses And USB Flash Drives
Monday, January 26, 2009
One of the nasty things about the Conficker virus (10 million PCs and counting) is its multiple methods of infection, including the way it infiltrates USB flash and network drives.
Imagine you get a flash drive from a friend, plug it in, and get the following message. Look closely. It seems like normal Windows, right? Wrong. If you pick the first choice ("publisher not specified") you just infected yourself with Conficker.This is the virus using a real Windows window to confuse you. Keep an eye out for any change, however small, to the usual things your computer does. In this case the virus inserts itself before the normal Windows options, knowing that most people simply click the first link without looking. You can disable Autoplay to avoid this particular trick, but there will be others.
Another nasty thing about Conficker is the second shoe it may be about to drop. Researchers say they expect Conficker to download and install a second payload that may do more to your computer than simply infect it. So patch your computer, keep that antivirus software current, and stay tuned to Tech Tips for more news.
Posted byTriona Guidry at 1:08 PM 0 comments
Labels: alerts, antivirus, consumers, emergency, malware, small business, spyware, windows
Viruses And The Automatic Updates Dilemma
Wednesday, January 21, 2009
A hospital in England, infected by Conficker, demonstrates the dilemma faced by businesses when it comes to Microsoft's Automatic Updates.
The hospital's computers were infected because the staff disabled Automatic Updates after a computer rebooted mid-surgery. What else could they have done? This is a case where computer management is literally a matter of life or death. They couldn't leave AU on, nor could they turn it off. Somewhere in between lies testing and careful deployment, but in reality most companies don't have the resources for manually installing Microsoft updates. That's what AU is for, isn't it? Actually Microsoft steers businesses away from AU, but installing the recommended business solution is non-trivial. Most small businesses simply enable AU, until there's a problem and it has to be disabled.
I'd like to say AU is better than no AU, but an unstable Microsoft patch can crash your computer. A few years ago there was a buggy Windows patch that disrupted wireless capability. It was hard for end users to see the connection between the patch and the problem because AU works silently, by design. The second Tuesday of the month is Microsoft Patch Tuesday, when IT shops around the world scramble to evaluate and install the latest round of fixes. Most of the time the updates are fine, but you get one with a problem and suddenly the help desk phone is ringing off the hook. That's why I schedule my regular customer visits after Patch Tuesday, so we can deal with any problems that may arise.
If you decide to keep AU enabled, be aware of these issues. If you decide to download and notify, don't keep clicking "later" or you'll wind up with Conficker and its ilk. Be sure to update your antivirus software, and don't forget to subscribe to Tech Tips for the latest computer news.
Posted byTriona Guidry at 9:06 AM 0 comments
Labels: consumers, small business, windows
Orphaned Server Accounts
Thursday, January 15, 2009
Pardon me, but you've left an orphan out there. Orphaned accounts are email or web usernames that are no longer used but haven't been deleted from the server. Small businesses and consumers alike would do well to clear their electronic trails of such wayward offspring.
For small businesses, orphaned server accounts can be an unseen hazard. Imagine you've let an employee go but haven't deleted their account. They could log in and grab sensitive data or rig the system to self-destruct; these days you don't need to be a computer whiz to do it. It's wise to make deleting accounts part of your standard personnel procedures. Avoid sharing accounts and passwords; set up individual IDs with specific access instead, and don't be tempted to leave post-its with passwords in your office. That deliveryperson could be a hacker in disguise.
Consumers should be aware of the orphans they may leave while visiting online sites. If you set up an email or web account somewhere but aren't using it, contact the site and ask them to delete it. Ironically, you may find some sites don't have a procedure for doing so. Talk to their tech people and request written confirmation that your account has been deleted. Otherwise you never know what someone else might be doing in your name.
Next month we'll talk about Alternate Web Browsers. Don't forget to subscribe to the email version of Tech Tips for the latest computer news.
Posted byTriona Guidry at 6:42 AM 0 comments
Labels: advanced users, consumers, Internet, passwords, security, small business
Malware Via LinkedIn
Monday, January 12, 2009
The word is getting out that phony MySpace and FaceBook profiles can deliver malware (malicious unwanted software, also known as spyware) to your computer. But many business professionals are unaware that similar threats also occur on LinkedIn and other business-oriented social networking sites.
At the moment the LinkedIn versions of these scams are the electronic equivalent of crayon scribbles: amateurish and easy to spot. However, you can expect them to become more prevalent and convincing. From a recent eWeek article:
[A]t the same time that LinkedIn's image makes it unlikely that any large number of people will click on through when profiles are being advertised as celebrity porn, you have to recognize that its business focus could conceivably make the site an even more dangerous weapon in the hands of truly cunning attackers -- who could, say, post a believable profile for a well-known CEO or industry pundit along with links to similarly themed malware URLs.Bad Web links are all over the place, so please be careful when clicking on links, even on reputable sites.
Posted byTriona Guidry at 11:49 AM 0 comments
Labels: alerts, consumers, Internet, malware, scams, small business, spyware
Holiday Computer Gift Guide
Monday, December 15, 2008
With the economy a mess, many people are looking to upgrade rather than replace computer equipment. This year's Holiday Gift Guide will help you give the gift of technology for less.
- Memory
Nothing says "I love you" like a faster computer. In Windows, go to Start, Control Panel, and look at how much memory you have in the System control panel. Mac users can find the same thing under the Apple menu, About This Mac. Note the model of your machine, and contact your local computer shop to find out what your upgrade options are. - Belkin Mini Surge Protector With USB Charger
This little gem from Belkin offers portable power protection, and charges USB devices too. - HP SimpleSave Photo DVD-R
If you have Windows and a DVD burner, backing up photos couldn't be simpler. Just insert the CD and the software does the rest. Also available for music and data.
Posted byTriona Guidry at 8:18 AM 0 comments
Labels: beginners, consumers, mac, small business, windows
Should You Buy PC Or Mac?
When choosing a computer, you want to be happy with it in the long run. By evaluating the best computer for your needs, you can stretch its lifespan and spare your wallet.
The first question people ask is, "PC or Mac?" I call it the "Coke or Pepsi" argument because it's a matter of personal preference. PCs and Macs let you do the same things: check email, surf the Web, write documents. They differ in how you use them.
PCs are ubiquitous in the business world, so if you already have an investment in Windows it's wise to keep it. This is especially true for those who use the enhanced features of programs like Outlook,Windows Server, and Exchange. For your average consumer, Windows works well but can be difficult to keep protected from Internet threats.
Everyone knows Macs rule the graphics world, but what you may not know is that they are the foundation of many businesses as well. Now that Macs run Windows, the old argument that Macs can't run the same software as PCs is moot. Quite a few of my corporate clients are mixed-platform, meaning they have both PCs and Macs.
I personally believe the Mac is "more secure" than the PC, not that any computer is truly secure. Macs are based on the UNIX operating system, the same systems upon which the Internet was developed and continues to run. That's forty years' worth of security testing, compared to half that for Windows. I still advocate antivirus for Macs, and I hold out hope that Windows can be redesigned to be more secure without losing the features that have made it so popular.
So, should you buy PC or Mac? It's up to you but either way, I'll be here to give you a hand.
Next month ask me why I say, Don't Renew Your AntiVirus Software. Be sure to sign up for the email version of Tech Tips for regular alerts plus bonus tips and product reviews.
Posted byTriona Guidry at 8:16 AM 0 comments
Labels: beginners, computer help, consumers, mac, small business, windows
Phony Web Pop-Ups
Saturday, November 15, 2008
The next time your computer gives you an error message, take a second look.
Because it may be a phony web pop-up, trying to convince you that your computer has an error. These pop-ups look remarkably like regular system alerts, but they're really Web ads trying to get you to click and infect your computer. The notorious WinAntiVirus scam (aka Winifixer or the Smitfraud trojan) uses this ploy to convince you that your computer is at risk unless you install their purported product.
Other Web pop-ups may try to get you to click on seemingly legitimate ads or offers. It can be extremely difficult to tell the difference between a real ad and a fake one, or even between a real Web site and a malicious clone. You can test your Web savvy through the McAfee SiteAdvisor spam and spyware quizzes, which will show you just how deceptive these phony pop-ups can be. (I also recommend you install the SiteAdvisor plug-in for your browser.)
Worse, there's the practice of clickjacking, which allows a malicious program to force your browser to click any link. This means you could get infected without any interaction on your part.
How can you protect yourself? Be sure to run the latest version of your antivirus software (see the Windows Help and Mac Help sidebars for suggestions). Windows users, don't use Internet Explorer, try Mozilla Firefox instead. Using IE can increase your risk of infection. I also strongly recommend that you not click on web pop-ups, ever. Use Firefox's pop-up blocker or a similar tool to keep the pop-ups away, and ignore the ones that do slip through.
Next month we'll go over my Holiday Computer Gift Guide. If you have any computer questions, click Comments below this article, and be sure to sign up for the email version of Tech Tips for bonus tips and product reviews.
Posted byTriona Guidry at 4:48 PM 0 comments
Labels: advanced users, antivirus, beginners, computer help, consumers, Internet, small business, spyware, web
Planned Computer Obsolescence
Planned obsolescence is the idea that computer manufacturers deliberately design hardware to force customers into continual replacement.
Does planned computer obsolescence exist? If not, recent manufacturing quality (or lack thereof) certainly leads to that impression. I am positive that computer printers made fifteen years ago last longer than those made today. Cases in point: the high percentage of ancient HP LaserJet printers I encounter, bless their little electronic hearts. On the other hand, newer printers of all brands, especially the low-end models, seem to suffer a less-than-two-year lifespan.
Computers are the same. That $500 PC... well, you may get what you pay for in a few years. Then again, you could buy a $5,000 PC and have the same experience. In general, Macs seem to resist planned obsolescence more readily, perhaps because Apple's stranglehold on the Mac hardware market limits competition. Even so, design decisions like the Intel Macs force customers to invest in new hardware.
Sometimes you have no choice but to follow the industry's "rip and replace" mantra. A recent flaw in the wireless security protocol WPA may soon mean that if your wireless access point is more than a few years old, you will have to replace it or risk being hacked. But it's not always feasible to spend yet more money on another piece of equipment when you feel like you just bought the one you have.
What can you do? Don't worry if your computer isn't the latest and greatest. If it does what you want, fine. If it's slow, try software repairs before resorting to a new system, or see if you can upgrade rather than replace. Not only will this curtail planned obsolescence, but it's better for your budget as well as our ewaste-encrusted planet.
Next month I'll share with you the biggest secret in the tech world, Should You Buy PC Or Mac? If you have any computer questions, click Comments below this article, and be sure to sign up for the email version of Tech Tips for bonus tips and product reviews.
Posted byTriona Guidry at 4:40 PM 0 comments
Labels: computer help, computer stores, consumers, mac, small business, windows, wireless networks