Have you ever accidentally deleted a file or edited a file only to find that you want to undo your changes but, alas, the undo button is greyed out?  You get frustrated with yourself, thinking you should have made duplicate copies of the file or you should have never touched it at all to begin with.  Believe it or not, this type of situation occurs all the time. Whether it has to do with personal files, office files, or project files, if you work with a computer, you are bound to make a mistake with your files at some point in time.  The problem is, going back in time isn't possible, which leaves you in a predicament.  Well, fortunately for Windows 7 users, Microsoft has revamped their system restore service, making it more useful than ever.  One of the best features of the new and improved system restore service is that you can now restore files to previous states or restore after a permanent deletion.  Read on to learn how you can use System Restore to restore files on your Windows 7 system.

An introduction to System Restore

For the uninitiated, System Restore is a service that was first popularized in Windows XP as a service that creates system backups, called "restore points", which you can restore later on.  The service became popular for rolling back a certain system state.  For example, if you made changes to your applications or registry, you encountered a nasty virus, or you started experiencing system problems, you could restore your system to a previous state to try and remedy the problem.  In Windows 7, the System Restore service has been reinvented to be more convenient, useful, and functional.  In this article we will be giving a short guide to the "Restore Previous Versions" feature, which is a new addition to the Windows 7 System Restore service.

How to use Restore to Previous Versions?

Step 1:  Browse to the file that you want to restore or, in the case of a deleted file, browse to the folder that once housed that file.

Step 2:  Right click on the file or folder and select "Restore previous versions" from the context menu.

Step 3:  You will be presented with the "Previous Versions" tab under the properties dialogue and in the menu, you will find previous changes that were made to that file or folder.  Click on the time, under "date modified", that you want to restore to and choose between opening, copying or restoring the folder.

Three simple steps is all it takes to get your files and folders back to the state that you want them in.  Just remember that you shouldn't always rely on the System Restore and Restore Previous Versions features.  Make sure to always back up your files and perhaps make multiple copies as you edit important files to make sure that you can see your progress and that you can always open up earlier copies if needed.

Windows 7 has been hailed as one of the best, if not the best, operating system. Among the many changes to Windows 7 that have made it such an excellent operating system are those made to the taskbar, most of which have been well-received by critics and the general Windows 7 population alike.  A wide range of graphical and functional changes have been made to the Windows 7 taskbar, making it perform much better, smoother, faster, and more intuitively, all while looking good at the same time.  Still many people prefer to have an application launcher dock in place of the taskbar. This article will cover some of the best Windows 7 compatible application launcher docks, as well as a nifty way to get rid of your taskbar to make your application dock the star of the [desktop] show.

Windows 7 compatible application launcher docks

*  RocketDock -  RocketDock has made a name for itself among the many application launchers and docks out there.  Aside from its primary application dock and application launching features, Rocket Dock also allows for full customization, a drag-and-drop interface, PNG and ICO icon support, auto-hide and pop-up features, positioning and layering options, portable application configuration, and support for a wide range of languages.

*  XWindows Dock -  This is an application dock that takes its cue from the Mac OS X dock. Some of the great features of this dock include customizable icons appearance and placing, support for numerous customized stacks, monitor folder options, and window minimizing features.

-  Circle Dock -  This is a great Open Source application launcher that has virtually limitless customization options.  The dock can be configured to pop out from your mouse cursor, or centered on your screen.  You can drag-and-drop files, rotate the wheel with your mouse wheel or keyboard arrows, change the look of the icons and skin of the dock, make use of customizable hotkeys, and much more.  This dock also supports compatibility with icons and skins from other docks, such as RocketDock and ObjectDock.

Eliminate your Windows 7 taskbar the easy way

Now, considering the rave reviews about the Windows 7 taskbar, it's hard to think of a reason why you would want to get rid of it.  If one of these application docks is good enough reason for you, however, you can grab the new Taskbar Eliminator 2.6 from Aviassin.  This is the simplest and easiest way to eliminate your taskbar.  All you have to do is download and install the application, then choose between the following options:

-  Hide taskbar
-  Show taskbar
-  Start with Windows
-  Don't start with Windows

The Taskbar Eliminator also has a hotkey default of "Alt + T" to show or hide your taskbar, or "Control + Alt + T" to show the Taskbar Eliminator preferences.

Windows 7 has been claimed by many as one of the best operating system releases to date.  Aside from being a popular and well-received operating system, Windows 7 is also a new piece of software that many people are purchasing and installing on their systems.  While most people are installing Windows 7 from a DVD, you can have a go at using a USB drive to install Windows 7.  Some of the advantages of transferring your Windows 7 installation disk to a USB drive include the portability and ease of using a USB drive, the speed of USB drives in comparison to DVD disks, and you won't need a DVD drive to get Windows 7 installed on your computer.  This article will cover two easy-to-use pieces of software for transferring your Windows 7 DVD installation to your USB drive.

Windows 7 USB/DVD Download Tool

The Windows 7 USB/DVD Download Tool is a piece of software that allows you to copy the image file of your Windows 7 from your DVD to a USB flash drive or another DVD disc.  To use this software, all you have to do is download it (free of charge) and install it on your computer, then follow the on-screen instructions.  Those running Windows XP will need to install the Microsoft .NET Framework v2 as well as the Microsoft Image Mastering API v2.  Once your system is set up to run and use the Windows 7 USB/DVD Download Tool, you run the program, point it to where your Windows 7 installation files are, then indicate the USB flash drive that you want to use, and follow the directions on the screen to copy the Windows installation to your USB flash drive.  Once all of that is done, insert your flash drive into the computer then browse to the "Setup.exe" file to begin the Windows 7 installation.  Another cool feature of this application is that it creates a bootable version of the Windows installation.  What that means is you can go into your BIOS and set your computer to boot from your USB drive, which will then boot into the Windows 7 installer.

WinToFlash

Another useful tool that has pretty much the same features as the software mentioned above is WinToFlash.  This piece of software is meant to help you copy a Windows installer from a CD, DVD, or hard-drive source onto a USB flash drive.  WinToFlash can be used for Windows XP, 2003, Vista, 2008, or 7, making it very versatile.  Furthermore, WinToFlash has a wizard mode that makes it easier than ever to format your USB media, copy the installation files, and prep your USB as a bootable installation disc for your Windows operating system.  Like the Windows 7 USB/DVD Download Tool, WinToFlash is free and can be downloaded from the Internet with ease.

Reminders about using a USB flash drive to install Windows 7

-  Make sure not to remove the USB drive while the installation files are being copied onto it or during the Windows installation.

-  You may need to fiddle with your BIOS to get your computer to boot from your USB drive, so just be careful what you touch in the BIOS.

-  These methods should only be used for legal copies of the Windows operating systems.

The Windows Family Pack offer has ended. Microsoft offered the software for a mere $150 but the offer expired at about the end of November, 2009. The sudden expiration of the so-called limited offer has sparked the anger of some consumers. Some have been waiting to get a copy when they first heard of the limited discount. Other consumers complain that the stores where they were looking for the Family Pack had earlier told them that all copies had been sold already and supplies should arrive soon. Supplies did not come. With the rest of the available copies pulled out from other stores, there would be no other opportunity to get the Windows Family Pack Limited Edition.

Shops that still have copies of the Family Pack are taking advantage of the situation. They increased the prices at a 90% rate. This should inspire more outrage from consumers.

Microsoft's limited offer

Microsoft’s limited offer started last October 22, 2009, a little before Windows 7’s retail launch. The offer enables consumers to upgrade up to 3 PCs to Windows 7 Home Premium. Those who did manage to get copies were able to save a whooping $210 each. According to Microsoft, the offer will continue "while supplies lasted." However, it was never announced just how many copies were to be sold at the limited offer price.

Rumors regarding the pull out of MS Windows Family Pack

Microsoft had offered discounted software before. Last summer, Windows 7 Home Premium was up for grabs at $49.99. There are some conflicts as to when the Family Pack will be pulled out. There were reports that said December 1 and there were those who claim that the offer had expired as far back as November 26. Even Microsoft Store was reportedly out of stock for two weeks already before word began spreading about the end of the offer.

Several sellers are increasing their copies’ prices dramatically while other owners are selling their own copies at Ebay, from $225 to $255. With the Family Pack gone, at least on its limited offer price, consumers have to pay more than double the price to upgrade three PCs.

The consumers' reaction and possible consequences

The pull out is quite unexpected and shocking because consumers believed that such an offer should continue until the end of the holidays. With Christmas just around the corner, some technology bloggers could only call Microsoft a real Scrooge. Other bloggers believe that the decision is mistimed and downright stupid. Because of its move, Microsoft may lose some buyers and admirers. If people start looking elsewhere because of this stunted offer, Microsoft will feel the people’s disappointment.

During the holidays, offers should abound. When an offer ends weeks before Christmas, consumers cannot help but wonder if waiting on Microsoft’s next move is wise, after all.

It's that time of the year again.  Time to set up the Christmas tree, hang the lights, enjoy some eggnog, put on a smile, grab your coat, and buy some gifts for your loved ones.  However, the gift of giving is oftentimes a lot more difficult than it sounds.  Finding the perfect gift for your relatives, friends, and co-workers, can take a lot of time, effort, money, and waiting-in-line at the cashier.  If you can't seem to think of the right gift for someone on your Christmas list, you may want to consider giving the gift of great software.  Computers are playing an increasingly more involved role in our lives as they help us with just about everything at the office, at home, and on the go.  So why not consider one of these great pieces of software as a Christmas gift to your loved ones?

1.  Operating systems

Two of the best operating systems in the software market these days are Microsoft's Windows 7 for personal computers and Apple's Snow Leopard for Mac.  Although these software programs can cost hundreds of dollars, they are great upgrades over older operating systems and they are sure to last for years to come, since Apple and Microsoft both offer free updates for licensed copies of their operating system.  Also, whoever receives the gift of an operating system is likely to remember you and the Christmas that they received the software every time they boot up their computer.

2.  System security

System security is essential for any and all computers these days.  Viruses, malware, spyware, hacker intrusions, phishing attempts, and worms are just a few of the many types of cyber attacks that can ruin your system and put your data at risk.  The gift of a year's subscription to a top-notch security suite software is the perfect way to show your love and care for someone.  AVG Internet Security 9.0 is a top-rated security software suite for Windows-based systems that costs $54.99 for a one-year subscription.  If your gift is for a Mac user, then you may want to get Kaspersky Anti-Virus for Mac, which comes from the award-winning computer security software developer Kaspersky, and costs $39.95 per year.

3.  Productivity

The gift of productivity is always welcomed and appreciated.  There are tons of productivity software out there for both Windows and Mac, but none are quite as comprehensive as the office suites.  For Windows, the Microsoft Office Standard 2007 suite provides a powerful set of programs, including Word, Excel, Outlook, and PowerPoint.  Microsoft Office Standard 2007 costs approximately $400, but you can upgrade from previous versions for less than $300.  You can also opt for the Microsoft Office Home and Student 2007 suite, which costs less than $200.  Office 2008 for Mac is a great productivity tool for Mac users.  The Business Edition of Microsoft Office 2008 for Mac costs less than $400, while the upgrade version costs less than $300. As for the Home and Student version for Mac, it costs less than $200.

The long-standing battle between the personal computer and the Mac has only intensified with the recent release of Microsoft's Windows 7 and Apple's Snow Leopard, which are the two newest operating systems in the market.  It doesn't always have to be about which operating system is better, however.  Sometimes, it's nice to be able to take advantage of the great features of both Windows 7 and Snow Leopard.  This article will give a short tutorial on how to get Windows 7 running on a Mac with the use of Apple's Boot Camp software.  Now, for some die-hard Apple fans, this may seem like sacrilege, but for others it is a great way to explore and use the features and functions of both of these operating system heavyweights.  So here it goes.

1.  Basic system requirements

To install and run Windows 7 on your Mac without any hiccups, your system will have to meet these minimum requirements:
-  An Intel-based Mac
-  The Mac OS X 10.5 Leopard or 10.6 Snow Leopard installation disk
-  10 GB of free hard drive space
-  Windows 7 installation disk

2.  Access Boot Camp and get started

If you meet the minimum system requirements, then you can initiate the procedure by opening Boot Camp Assistant on Mac.  Just search for the application with the Spotlight feature.  Boot Camp will then walk you through the installation.  Before actually starting the Windows 7 installation, Boot Camp Assistant will remind you that it would be ideal to back up your hard drive.  Backing up your data is the best way of ensuring that you can restore your files and your system in case something goes wrong.

3.  Create a partition

After the backup warning, Boot Camp Assistant will then go into the next step, which is partitioning.  You will have to create a separate partition on your hard drive for your Windows 7 installation.  It is advisable to make this partition at least 5 to 10 GB.  But if you plan on making full use of Windows 7 by installing applications and games, you may want to bump up the partition space to around 30 to 50 GB.  Select your partition space, click "Partition," and let Boot Camp Assistant do the rest.

4.  Installing Windows 7

Now that your system is partitioned and ready for the Windows 7 installation, you need to grab your installation disk and insert it into the disk drive.  The actual installation of Windows 7 will probably take a while and it will have a few settings and options for you to configure along the way, so don't go too far from your Mac while the installation is in progress.  After accepting the terms and agreements, choosing your language settings, and selecting the type of Windows 7 installation you want, you will then have to select the partition you created with Boot Camp in step 2.  The partition will then be formatted into the NTFS file system, and the installation of Windows 7 will commence.  After the installation is done, all you have to do is select the Windows boot up option from the OS X boot screen, which can be accessed by holding the Alt key while the system is booting.  You may need to install some drivers from your OS X installation disk, which is easy enough once you get into Windows.

To further get into this operating system on mac computers you might be interested in visiting ixdownloads windows 7 forum where you both can ask questions and help other.

With Windows 7 hitting the shelves of stores all around the world, the new operating system is set to take the personal computer industry by storm.  Slick features, unmatched security, improved stability, an upgraded interface, and improved functionality are just some of the things that make Windows 7 so desirable.  If you already have a licensed version of Windows Vista on your computer, then you may qualify for the Windows 7 upgrade option.  The Windows 7 upgrade option is probably the easiest and most cost-effective way of getting Windows 7 on your machine, but some people have been having problems with getting their machine up-to-date with the latest operating system from Microsoft.  Here are some tips on how to get the Windows 7 upgrade option installed and working on your computer.

The first and most important thing to understand about the Windows 7 upgrade option is that it is only available for those who have previous installations of properly licensed Windows Vista operating systems.  Although there are ways to install Windows 7 without having a previous version of Windows installed, doing so will result in a violation of the licensing terms and agreements.  If you don't have a properly licensed version of Windows Vista on your computer, then you should buy the full copy of Windows 7 instead of using the upgrade option.

Performing an "in-place upgrade"

Perhaps the easiest way to use the Windows 7 upgrade option is to do what is referred to by Microsoft as an "in-place upgrade."  Basically, an in-place upgrade allows you to install Windows 7 without having to format your entire drive.  In other words, the new operating system will be installed while still retaining your installed software, your files, and some of your settings.  It's important to know, though, that in-place upgrades only work if you meet these requirements:

1.  You are upgrading from a 32-bit version of Windows Vista to a 32-bit version of Windows 7
2.  You are upgrading from a 64-bit version of Windows Vista to a 64-bit version of Windows 7
3.  You are not moving from a higher-end version of Windows Vista to a lower-end version of Windows 7

Performing a clean install

If you don't meet the requirements for an in-place upgrade, then you will want to perform a clean install.  When you do a clean install, the hard drive partition you install Windows 7 on will be formatted, meaning that all of the data on that partition will be erased, hence the term "clean" installation.  It's important to back up all of your data on another hard drive or on some sort of removable media (e.g., DVD, flash drive) so you can restore the data after the installation.

You might find more answers and be able to discuss this operating system in our windows 7 forum.

Firefox has long been a top contender in the seemingly age-old battle of the browsers.  With its flexibility, stability, security, and ease of use, many people have jumped onto the Firefox bandwagon.  Another great feature of Firefox is the fact that Mozilla makes a constant and consistent effort to keep it up-to-date and working on the latest platforms, from mobile to PC to Mac.  Mozilla has done it again, releasing a new beta version of Firefox, dubbed Firefox 3.6 beta 1.  Among the numerous changes that have been made for this version, the most noticeable are the changes that help Firefox integrate more smoothly with Windows 7.  As one of the newest and most popular PC operating systems, Microsoft's Windows 7 is bound to be on millions of computers around the world and Firefox doesn't want to miss the runaway train.  Read on for some of the updates on Firefox 3.6 beta 1 that help with Windows 7 integration and compatibility.

Integrating Firefox functionality into Windows 7's Aero Peek

Some of the features that make Windows 7 such a joy to use are those that contribute to its intuitive interface and the new Firefox beta takes full advantage of these features.  Firefox 3.6 beta 1 is now fully compatible with the Aero Peek feature of the revamped Windows 7 taskbar.  When you hover your mouse over the Firefox icon on your taskbar, the Aero Peek feature will kick in, showing small displays of the tabs that you have open in your Firefox window.  The preview displays shrink as you open more tabs, ensuring that you can catch a glance of all the tabs you have open.  This feature is extremely useful, because you can easily view all of the open tabs and click on the one that you want to bring to the front of your display.

Getting total control over your Firefox browsing

Another useful feature of Firefox 3.6 beta 1 is the updated Control + Tab tool, which gives you full control over your open tabs.  When you have three or more tabs open and you use the CTRL + Tab hotkey, Firefox will open a preview pane of your open tabs.  Done in the Aero-look that Windows 7 is popular for, this CTRL + Tab functionality allows you to view and select open tabs without having to use the Aero Peek function mentioned above.  You can also activate another hotkey triggered by the Control + Shift + Tab buttons.  The CTRL + Shift + Tab hotkey brings up a similar Aero-style preview of your open tabs, with an added search bar feature.  The search bar allows you to search through the tabs that you have open by typing in all or part of the name of the tab you are looking for.  The list will then filter your tabs according to your search so you can find the exact tab you need at any given time.

Hacks and cracks are being offered liberally over the Internet.  Sometimes they are offered for free and sometimes they are sold at a much lower price.  So, it is no surprise that software users are tempted to grab these illegal deals rather than pay for genuine but much more expensive upgrades.  Piracy is so widespread that Microsoft felt that it is time to issue a specific and directed warning.

A simple misunderstanding?

Some consumers believe that once they buy their own PC, they completely own the software included.  This, however, is not the case for all software that comes with their PC.  Some applications found in a newly bought PC are actually demos or trial versions.  This means that buying the software alone can provide the user access to all the features of the application.  Sometimes software manufacturers provide a trial period in which the user can enjoy all the features.  When hooked, the user can buy the software itself.  So, when it comes to Windows 7 upgrades: they are only applicable to those who actually own Windows 7.  "Buying an upgrade and using its license for a newly installed Windows is illegal," said the Microsoft Worldwide Partner Group's Eric Ligman.  It is time for consumers to start reading software license agreements.  Michael Cherry, the vice president of research for Microsoft, declares that it is still best to install with a proper license and not resort to piracy.

No more pledges of ignorance

Because piracy has been around for quite awhile, those who take advantage of hacks and cracks can no longer claim to be ignorant of the legality of the matter.  Those who actually find ways to download unauthorized versions of software are the ones who are most likely "in-the-know" when it comes to software and other technical stuff.  Ligman's blog post also makes it clearer to those who are actually ignorant about what should be considered against the law.  The blog serves as both a warning and an attempt to educate those who are still innocent about the legalities of hacks and cracks.

Microsoft's possible preventive measures

Because piracy can be very profitable to the sellers and even to the buyers, it is a very difficult case to crack -- no pun intended.  So, what Microsoft can do is go beyond the warnings and create active preventive measures.  One such measure is to design software differently.  The company can make definitive changes on Windows so that only authorized copies can enjoy the software's features.  WGA, Windows Genuine Advantage, may also be used.  WGA is an online validation tool that can recognize which copy is genuine and which one is not.  The threat of being revealed as a hack and a crack user can discourage Windows users from resorting to buying pirated software.

It’s time to stop worrying about high software prices for the latest Windows version. Microsoft offers a number of ways to acquire a copy of the software for discounted prices, even before its official launch.

In its recent web releases, Microsoft announced its plan to offer relatively cheaper Windows 7 for students. The offer only lasts for a limited promotional period. Students in the United Kingdom and the United States who are planning to grab a copy of Windows’ latest version may buy the product for a considerable discount.

More on the discounted rates

Microsoft’s web site published that starting October 1, students in the UK can order Windows 7 in advance for only 30 British pounds. In a similar post on Twitter, Microsoft also announced that college students in the United States can also purchase the software for only $30. Students can already make advanced orders starting later Thursday. The web site linked on Microsoft’s Twitter post, however, has not yet posted details on the said promotional offer.

To be able to get the offer, a student has to have a valid college e-mail address. Advanced orders can be claimed when Windows 7 finally launches on the 22nd of October. Those who preordered can download the software through instructions to be provided by Microsoft.

According to a Microsoft representative, the offer is especially designed and intended for students who would like to experience the advantages of Windows 7. The company also offers similar promos in other countries such as Canada, Germany, Mexico, France, Australia, and Korea. The prices, however, may vary from one country to another based on different factors. The length of the promo period, too, may vary from one country to another. The offer lasts until the 3rd of January in most countries, though in some areas, the promo period is longer. In Australia, for instance, students can still get discounted Windows 7 copies until the end of March. Other countries besides the United Kingdom and the United States, too, may have to wait until the official launch on October 22 before ordering.

This promo offer for students is just one of Microsoft’s promotional steps in offering Windows 7 copies for a discounted price. Until July 11, Microsoft also offered to let Windows users upgrade to Windows 7 Home Premium for only $49. Aside from this preorder promo and student discount, Microsoft also runs a family pack offer for those in the United States.

Windows 7 is the latest in Microsoft’s line of operating systems for computers. It is loaded with advanced and improved features that are sure to make life with a PC easier, more convenient, and more enjoyable than ever.