2011 ends today and what a year it has been. I can't say that I'm sad to see it go and I'm looking forward to fresh starts in 2012 and big new challenges. To wrap up the year, I am reflecting on the top articles here that brought well over half a million people to 404 Tech Support in 2011. I'm hoping visitors found the answers to their questions here and may have even … [Read more...]
Archives for December 2011
Goodreads keeps track of books you have read and want to read
I don't do as much reading as I would like to, I could come up with plenty of excuses of things getting in the way, but I still like to think that some day I will have more free time and better priorities. For that reason, I keep a list of books that catch my eye or are recommended to me. I have used LibraryThing and the wishlists on Amazon.com to keep track of books I have … [Read more...]
Out-of-band security patch for Windows today
Microsoft put out a security advisory yesterday regarding a vulnerability in the Microsoft .NET framework on almost all versions of Windows. This security update resolves one publicly disclosed vulnerability and three privately reported vulnerabilities in Microsoft .NET Framework. The most severe of these vulnerabilities could allow elevation of privilege if an unauthenticated … [Read more...]
Buy gift cards at a discount or trade in unwanted gift cards for cash
In one of those 'big number' moments, NPR reported that $41 billion is tied up in gift cards that haven't been redeemed since 2005. Another $27.8 billion is estimated to have been given as gift cards this holiday season. Along with discussing the unclaimed gift card money, they also offered suggestions of sites that allow you to trade in your gift cards for cash or if you are … [Read more...]
Inside the CPUsage Beta – Distributed Computing Is Starting To Pay
Making money from your computer when it is idle would be like finding a money tree for some. I have previously written about putting your idle computer to good use with distributed computing services like Folding@Home, SETI, and others. While those benefited organizations in need of processing power, it was largely a donation on your part. It seems the only way to generate … [Read more...]