Update Tuesday

[Ken Lang]

OK, so today is update Tuesday. I have been told umpteen times XP is done. How come today as I was using my XP I got updates? There are so many people
still using XP, I suspect Microsoft will again start supporting it.

I'm using my Win 7 laptop at the moment and I hate it.
The curser keeps jumping around every where.

[Wiz Feinberg]

If you have MS Office 2007 or newer you will still get updates for its components via "Microsoft" Update; an expanded version of Windows Update, which includes Silverlight and Office programs. The updates of June 10 included patches for critical vulnerabilities in Office, and are detailed at MS14-036

Also, you probably downloaded and ran the Malicious Software Removal Tool. This tool is updated every month and is currently being used to expunge the GameOver ZeuS (Zbot) and CryptoLocker Trojans, as well as the Cutwail botnet components that are used to deliver them and allow remote control of the infected computers.

[Wiz Feinberg]

The fact that you received something via Windows (Microsoft) Update, probably through Automatic Updates, doesn't mean that Windows XP itself, or Internet Exploder received any updates. In fact, Yesterday's updates included a number of patches for IE 8 vulnerabilities. However, these were not delivered to XP users running IE 8. They will continue to be vulnerable to existing and emerging zero day exploits.

[Ken Lang]

Thanks, Wiz. Here in NY I like my big computer, an XP
because it has a big screen and so on. It says it can take Win 7 32 bit according to Microsoft update. The only thing I don't like is having to re-upload my stuff. Can I do my programs as well or do they have to be uploaded separately?

[Wiz Feinberg]

Thanks, Wiz. Here in NY I like my big computer, an XP
because it has a big screen and so on. It says it can take Win 7 32 bit according to Microsoft update. The only thing I don't like is having to re-upload my stuff. Can I do my programs as well or do they have to be uploaded separately?

You would have to back up all program data and downloaded setup executables to another drive, install Windows 7 onto your primary drive, then reinstall those programs. After each program is installed, copy saved data files to where they need to go.

Note: The application data directories are different between XP and later versions. You would be better served by purchasing a program like PCMover to assist you with the upgrade and program reinstallation. It automates the whole process.

[Ken Lang]

Thanks Wiz. I think I'd have a pro do it and not worry doing it myself.

Could I go on the net by setting up a home network and getting my Win 7 laptop on line thru the network by still using my XP?

[Wiz Feinberg]

Thanks Wiz. I think I'd have a pro do it and not worry doing it myself.

Could I go on the net by setting up a home network and getting my Win 7 laptop on line thru the network by still using my XP?

Very good decision to pay a pro to transfer your files and settings over.

Once you setup a (secured please) home network, front-ended by a broadband modem connected to your ISP, any machine with a network adapter can go on the Internet. That means if you build the network with a wired router, all computers that you can plug into the ports on the router will share the one Internet connection. You just have to run some RJ45 cables to the various rooms, plugging them into the router, which is plugged into the broadband modem.

Or, you can buy a wireless modem, learn to secure it against hackers and all local machines that you type the password into the connection credentials dialog can connect wirelessly, if they all have wireless adapters in them.

I run a combination of wired and wireless networking in my house. The Comcast Cable modem connects to a wired/wireless router with a short network cable. Two main PCs are directly connected to the router, which has 4 wired ports on the back. A 75 foot network cable feeds around the door, down the hall and into the living room. I use it when I update/service other people's computers and don't want to dink around with wireless passwords on their computers. Our phones and tablets connect wirelessly, after I type in the networking password.

A secured wireless network keeps casual passersby from logging onto your connection and uploading/downloading who knows what from/to their computers or devices. A wired network eliminates that concern, unless somebody sneaks in and plugs their laptop into a network cable on the premises. This does occur in businesses. A lot of intellectual property gets stolen that way, or via unsecured wireless networks, or those with default passwords on the wireless routers.