Google Product Manager James Kelly

One day after launching Buzz, a social networking platform similar to Facebook, Google announced plans today to build an “experimental” ultra high-speed broadband network in a limited number of trial locations across the United States.

According to the announcement on Google’s official blog, the search giant plans to “…deliver Internet speeds more than 100 times faster than what most Americans have access to today with 1 gigabit per second, fiber-to-the-home connections. We plan to offer service at a competitive price to at least 50,000 and potentially up to 500,000 people. Continue reading »»

Firefox configuration window

Firefox is a free, open source browser that has become a popular alternative to Microsoft’s Internet Explorer. Since Mozilla makes it easy to customize and tweak Firefox, lots of “how to” performance tips are circulating on the ]Internet. After testing some of the more popular Firefox performance tweaks, here are a few that really work.

The “about:config” window

Most Firefox speed tweaks are performed in the “about:config” window which lists advanced configuration and system settings for Firefox. Start Firefox then type “about:config” (without quotes) in the address bar, then hit “Enter” to open the about:config page. Continue reading »»

Ubuntu Linux

One of the reasons Linux has been gaining popularity is the immense failure of Vista, which continues to be riddled with bugs, security vulnerabilities and annoying hardware compatibility issues. Even with Windows 7 on the scene, many people are ready to try something new.

Another reason more people are giving Linux a try is Ubuntu. Ubuntu is free and has all the features of Vista without all of the problems. Flexibility, detailed online manuals, enhanced resistance to viruses, and a huge community of supporters makes Ubuntu a tough operating system to beat. That being said, it’s still scary to switch to a new operating system. Here are a few tips to help make your transition into the world of Linux a bit smoother. Continue reading »»

Firefox and Gimp in Ubuntu

If you want to spend less on computer systems, learning as much as you can about free software alternatives is a good idea. Operating systems like Windows Vista and Ubuntu Linux do pretty much the same things, but in different ways.

Cost and licensing

Linux operating systems are published under open source licenses that make the source code available to everyone. Microsoft products, including Windows Vista and XP, are protected by copyright and other intellectual property laws. Continue reading »»

Windows 7 Upgrade Advisor

Microsoft’s much anticipated Windows 7 operating system is now on the scene and many XP and Vista users can hardly wait to make the switch. Vista seemed doomed from the start when Windows fans discovered its frustrating interface, driver issues and resource hogging system requirements.

Enter Windows 7. Reviews have been very positive, and it appears Windows 7 will be a refreshing change for Vista users. If you are running Windows Vista now, your computer will probably be able to run Windows 7 with out problems. If not, follow these steps to see if your PC, laptop or netbook will be able to run Microsoft’s latest operating system. Continue reading »»