December 6, 2007
Hide sensitive files with Alternate Data Streams
Almost every small business and individual PC user has some sensitive or private files to keep away from prying eyes. If you're running a modern version of Windows, you can use a little-known feature called Alternate Data Streams to hide your confidential files inside other files or folders. Read more »
Microsoft to cut WGA 'kill switch' out of Vista
Microsoft has announced significant changes to its trouble-prone Windows Genuine Advantage technology, beginning with the upcoming Service Pack 1 for Windows Vista. Unlike Vista's behavior today, WGA will not disable functions of Vista SP1 if the instance is seen as "nongenuine," but will instead merely display hourly nag screens inviting users to buy another copy. Read more »
But, my mom said I could!
In real estate, location is important. In the stock market, patience is key. When asking your mom if you can take a chainsaw to school to cut your desk in half for show-and-tell, timing is everything! Read more »
The secret life of 3D Pinball 
Of all the features in Windows XP that have gone missing in Vista, many of you most lament the passing of 3D Pinball. Really. Well, strap on your pearl-handled phasers, Space Cadet: here's a holiday treat that can help you cheat and hack 3D Pinball to your heart's content in both XP and Vista. Read more »
Use Process Explorer to dig into your system
Microsoft's Process Explorer tool is a convenient way to find in one spot a lot of information about running processes. In the last several months, I've covered in this column a lot of commercial and canned tools. Now I'll show you how to explore on your own. Read more »
Service Pack 1 for Office 2007 now due Dec. 11
Despite recent statements by Microsoft that Service Pack 1 for MS Office 2007 wouldn't ship until "early 2008," it's just been announced that the huge download will actually be released on Dec. 11, to the surprise of many. If your company makes any use of Office 2007, you need to look into the details of this upgrade and prepare yourself for any issues it may pose. Read more »