Windows XP and Vista Tips, Plus Security Apps

Have a few minutes for some fast Windows fixes? Whether you use XP or Vista, we've got tips for you. And the XP vs. Vista debates rage on in our comments section; share your tips and opinions with us.

Wrestling with Vista's User Account Control? Wrestle no more; we've got some ways to make it work for you. What do you think of UAC? Join the discussion.

If you're looking for an all-in-one security suite, check out our latest roundup review. Tell us what programs you like, which you don't, and your experiences.

This week's Community Poll is about your first cell phone. Take the survey, then share your memories of great (or awful) phones gone by.

We end with product reviews from readers like you. Don't forget to visit PC World Shopping for reviews of gadgets you're considering this holiday season--and be sure to review the gear you already own.

Note: To use our interactive features, such as adding comments to discussions, voting in the weekly poll, and contributing your own product reviews, you must be signed in to the PC World Web site. (Not registered? You can sign up online.) However, you can view the discussion threads and poll results without being signed in.

Fast Windows Fixes

cfischer83 says: Why is it that all the so-called professionals have so many problems with Vista but normal folks can't seem to break it? ;) My dad just bought a new computer with Vista, and besides it being compatible with his 5-year-old scanner, 4-year-old printer and 4-year-old camera, it doesn't have any problems. I've had this laptop with Vista for the past half year and it has the least problems of any computer I've ever used.

Alphabool says: Vista has been introduced into the consumer market with far too many hardware and software incompatibilities, and hordes of bugs.

Rkinne01 says: If a company doesn't release software or hardware that works with Vista it is not Microsoft's fault. It simply amazes me that people don't look before they leap. Check for compatibility before you upgrade. How hard is that? This is like blaming Ford for a third-party company not making its products to fit in Ford cars. Would you just run out and buy a car stereo without seeing if it would fit?

Beeteep says: One thing you forget to mention about the Run command in Windows Vista is that the search box will actually function as the Run box too. Try typing msconfig or something in it and press Enter...it works exactly the same.

Read the posts in this thread and contribute your own opinion.

Make Vista's User Account Control Work for You

Aravorn says: This method does work ... for a while. But after every Windows update (or even going to the Windows Update page to check for updates) the UAC is back on. Very irritating!

Adama says: I had to turn off my UAC for a couple of weeks, but I didn't like not having the protection. So I turned it back on. Now I no longer mind the prompts I receive; I guess I've gotten used to it.

Tascon says: UAC is for beginners. I don't think that it gives you extra protection, since after a while you don't pay attention to it anymore and are more vulnerable to threats.

Plyushsingh says: If only you are using your system, then UAC is merely delaying your work by a few seconds, so its better to turn it off. For multiple accounts on a system, it's a powerful tool and there's a lot to tweak in there.

Read the posts in this thread and contribute your own opinion.

All-In-One Security Suites Tried and Tested

SpiritWind says: Best to avoid all security suite and use the "layered" approach to security, which is finding a very good program in each malware-fighting category.

ChuckEtheridge says: I was disappointed to not see Windows Live OneCare represented. I have been using that and Defender for six months on an XPsp2 system, and with my current Vista Ultimate since April of this year. I have had no trouble with viruses or malware while using them.

Dave404 says: McAfee seems to deliberately want you to remove ZoneAlarm and use their crappy firewall. I am looking for alternatives to McAfee since I am at the renewal period.

Holmes7 says: My computer came preloaded with Trend Micro full version and I am pleased with it. There was one incident of a false positive a few months ago. They offer tech support by e-mail, which is a plus even though I had to ask my question a couple different ways to be understood.

Read the posts in this thread and contribute your own opinion.

Community Poll

What was the first mobile phone you owned?

• Nokia
• Motorola
• Sony Ericsson
• Samsung
• LG
• Siemens
• Other

Vote now in the PC World Forums.