1. W95-11D.ZIP Driver
2. TIPSXP.TXT File Contents

TIPSXP.TXT Driver File Contents (W95-11D.ZIP)

			  AXCEL216's MAX Speeed
		Windows XP ©Tweaks, Secrets, BUGs + FIXes




These topics refer STRICTLY to ALL Microsoft Windows XP final (Gold) English
releases, unless specified otherwise!

My WinXP ©tricks are also available at:
http://members.aol.com/axcel216/wxp.htm

WARNING: FIRST BACKUP ALL YOUR HARD DRIVES TO A SAFE LOCATION BEFORE
	 ATTEMPTING TO MAKE ANY SYSTEM CHANGES!
	 Take EXTREME CAUTION when modifying your System settings! Faulty
	 changes may result in computer crashes/lockups/permanent data loss,
	 or might lead to having you REINSTALL the ENTIRE Operating System(s)!
	 YOU are the ONLY one responsible for ANY changes YOU make!
	 ALWAYS HAVE YOUR MOST RECENT SYSTEM BACKUP READY!

BEWARE: These ©tricks have been tried by others (and most by me), but with NO
	guarantee they will also work for YOU!

CREDITS: Some of the following tips I stumbled upon while browsing the
	 Internet, some have been kindly sent by concerned readers (all
	 authors/contributors are acknowledged and reliable sources given
	 proper credit), and some I discovered myself. Enjoy the ride!

NOTE:	Contributed tips (clearly marked) posted here do not necessarily
	reflect the opinion of the author of these files.

Please send me your comments, corrections, tips at:
axcel216@aol.com

MUST HAVE from SOFTWARE.TXT (included):
- WINDOWS XP ESSENTIAL FREE UPGRADES + FIXES:
http://members.aol.com/axcel216/web.htm#WXP
- INTERNET EXPLORER 4/5/6 ESSENTIAL FREE UPGRADES + FIXES:
http://members.aol.com/axcel216/web.htm#BRO
- FREE WINDOWS NT4/2000/XP/2003 EXTRAS:
http://members.aol.com/axcel216/xptoy.htm
- 400+ Windows 9x/NT/2000/ME/XP/2003 Power Toys [99.99% FREE(ware)]:
http://members.aol.com/axcel216/toy.htm


TIPSXP.TXT Contents: [New "©tricks" added at the TOP]


SINGLE CLICK SHUTDOWN
XP FIREWALL GUIDE
GET BACK YOUR CD/DVD [+]
TEACH XP NEW TRACKS
FORCE XP STYLE THEMES
STOP MSN MESSENGER [+]
INTERNET TIME THROUGH XP FIREWALL
XP SENDMAIL.DLL FIX
WINXP PRO QOS FIX
AVOID XP REGISTRATION
INSTALL XP UNATTENDED (My ©trick)
WELCOME ADMINISTRATOR!
HIBERNATE OPTION
AUTOREBOOT [+]
COMMENTS? LINK
WMP8 MP3 ENCODING
SHOW FULL URL		->	REGISTRY.TXT
FIX COPY/MOVE/SEND TO	->	REGISTRY.TXT
TURN OFF NUMLOCK	->	REGISTRY.TXT
KILL IE ABOUT: URLS	->	REGISTRY.TXT
BROWSING SPEEDUP	->	REGISTRY.TXT
TWEAK WEB VIEW		->	REGISTRY.TXT
IE CONTENT PASSWORD FIX ->	REGISTRY.TXT
ALL IN ONE SEARCH	->	REGISTRY.TXT
CPU PRIORITY (#2)	->	REGISTRY.TXT
NEW IE SEARCH BUTTONS	->	REGISTRY.TXT
DELETE REG KEY/VALUE	->	REGISTRY.TXT
TOOLTIP OFF		->	REGISTRY.TXT
REAL TIME PRIORITY	->	REGISTRY.TXT
HTTP SERVER REQUESTS	->	REGISTRY.TXT
REMOVE NETSCAPE AIM	->	REGISTRY.TXT
BLINK... NOT!		->	REGISTRY.TXT
THE REGISTRY		->	REGISTRY.TXT [Intro chapter]
REGISTRY STRUCTURE	->	REGISTRY.TXT [Intro chapter]
REG FILES		->	REGISTRY.TXT [Intro chapter]
REGISTRY EDITING RULES	->	REGISTRY.TXT [Intro chapter]
REGISTRY LINKS		->	REGISTRY.TXT [Intro chapter]
BROWSER CACHE IN MEMORY ->	REGISTRY.TXT
BRANDED MS IE		->	REGISTRY.TXT
FORCED EXIT		->	REGISTRY.TXT
END TASK TIMEOUT	->	REGISTRY.TXT
ACTIVE WINDOW TRACKING	->	REGISTRY.TXT
RENAME MS IE TITLE	->	REGISTRY.TXT
IE AUTOSCAN		->	REGISTRY.TXT
MENUSHOWDELAY		->	REGISTRY.TXT
ANIMATED WINDOWS	->	REGISTRY.TXT
NO POPUPS ON BOOT	->	TIPS2000.TXT
REMOVE MOUSE SHADOW	->	TIPS2000.TXT
INCREASE DNS CACHE	->	TIPS2000.TXT
CHANGE SYSTEM FONT	->	TIPS2000.TXT
DISABLE FILE PROTECTION ->	TIPS2000.TXT
ERROR MODE		->	TIPS2000.TXT
DISABLE LAST ACCESS	->	TIPS2000.TXT
SPEEDUP DOS SESSIONS	->	TIPS2000.TXT
OPEN WITH NOTEPAD FIX	->	TIPS2000.TXT
GRAB THE FOCUS!		->	TIPS2000.TXT
BYPASS AUTOLOGON	->	TIPS2000.TXT
UDMA/66 ALL THE WAY	->	TIPS2000.TXT
XDSL/CABLE MODEM SPEEDUP->	TIPS2000.TXT
KEYBOARD + MOUSE BUFFER ->	TIPS2000.TXT
SPONTANEOUS REBOOT FIX	->	TIPS2000.TXT
ALWAYS UNLOAD DLLS	->	TIPS98.TXT
BUGGY TWEAKUI 98	->	TIPS98.TXT
REGISTERED USER?	->	TIPS98.TXT
9X/2K/NT/ME/XP/3.1 MULTIBOOT	MYTIPS95.TXT
FIND FAST		->	MYTIPS95.TXT
NEW FOLDER ICON		->	MYTIPS95.TXT
NEW DRIVE ICON		->	MYTIPS95.TXT
URL PASSWORD		->	MYTIPS95.TXT
MS IE 5.5 SP2 + 6.0 FIX ->	MYTIPS95.TXT
3D CONTROLS 4 3D EFFECTS->	MYTIPS95.TXT
THE PLUS! PACKS		->	TIPS95.TXT
EXPLORE YOUR ROOTS	->	TIPS95.TXT
NORTON FIREWALL HIDDEN BAR	TIPS95.TXT
PROXY AD BLOCKER	->	TIPS95.TXT
LOVE(LY) VIRUS FIX	->	TIPS95.TXT
LOCK DESKTOP ICONS	->	TIPS95.TXT
CUSTOM NETSCAPE THROBBER->	TIPS95.TXT
DELETE MS IE UNINSTALL	->	TIPS95.TXT
WINKEY SHORTCUTS	->	TIPS95.TXT
KEYBOARD SHORTCUTS	->	TIPS95.TXT
HOT KEYS		->	TIPS95.TXT
QUICK FIX ENGINEERING	->	TIPS95.TXT
MSKB MADE EASY		->	TIPS95.TXT
SUPPORT INFORMATION	->	TIPS95.TXT
NOTEPAD DATE/TIME STAMP ->	TIPS95.TXT
MS IE 5/6 EASTER EGG	->	EGGS.TXT
JSCRIPT RESIZER EASTER EGG	EGGS.TXT
OSR2/NT/2K/ME/XP OPENGL EGG	EGGS.TXT
ANOTHER MS IE EASTER EGG->	EGGS.TXT
SOLITAIRE EASTER EGG	->	EGGS.TXT
MINESWEEPER EASTER EGG	->	EGGS.TXT
HEARTS EASTER EGG	->	EGGS.TXT
FREECELL EASTER EGGS + CHEATS	EGGS.TXT


NOTE:
[+] = Apply also to Windows NT4, 2000 and/or 2003, and are referred to in
TIPSNT4.TXT and/or TIPS2000.TXT respectively (both included).
______________________________________________________________________________



SINGLE CLICK SHUTDOWN



Did you know that in Windows XP you can shut down your computer from the
(eventually DOS prompt) command line box? Moreover, you can do this by
clicking your mouse only once. :)
All you need to do is... right-click on an empty Desktop spot -> select New ->
Shortcut -> type shutdown followed by a space, and then enter one or more of
the parameters listed below -> click Next -> type a suggestive name for your
new shortcut -> finally, click Finish.
This is the Shutdown.exe (located in %systemroot%\System32, usually
C:\Windows\System32) syntax:

shutdown [-i|-l|-s|-r|-a] [-f] [-m \\computername] [-t xx] [-c "Text"] [-d[u][p]:xx:yy]

Valid command line switches:
-a = Abort system shutdown in progress ONLY IF the -t xx timeout option was
already set to ANY value other than 0. ALL switches except -l and -m are
ignored during abort.
-c "Text" = Text comment (case insensitive) to be displayed in the Message
area of the System Shutdown window. MUST be enclosed between quotes. Maximum
allowed 127 ASCII characters.
-d [u][p]:xx:yy = Reason code for shutdown:
	u = User code.
	p = Planned shutdown code.
	xx = Major reason code. Positive integer number less than 256.
	yy = Minor reason code. Positive integer number less than 65536.
-f = Force running applications to close without warning.
-i = Display the shutdown interface (GUI). MUST be the first option!
-l = Log off the current user of the local computer (default action). CanNOT
be used with the -m option unless the current user has Sysadmin rights, in
which case the -m switch takes precedence.
-m \\computername = Remote/network computer name (most always case sensitive)
to log off/restart/shut down. Current user MUST have Sysadmin rights to be
allowed to use this switch!
-s = Shut down the local computer.
-r = Shut down and restart (reboot) the local computer.
-t xx = Set shutdown timer to timeout for xx seconds. IF NOT specified
defaults to 20 seconds. Allowed values between 0 and 99 seconds. The -a switch
is the ONLY one that CAN be used during the timeout period.

NOTES:
- The dash (-) in front of these switches can be replaced by a forward slash
(/).
- Spaces are NOT required to separate the shutdown command from ANY following
switches, but ARE required to separate ANY switch from its following
parameter(s), if any.

For example:

shutdown -s -c "Shutting down!" -t 3

tells your computer to shutdown after waiting for 3 seconds while the System
Shutdown window will display text above in the Message area.
Optional: after you're done creating your customized shortcut for shutdown ->
right-click on it -> select Properties -> enter your desired key "combo" in
the Shortcut Key box (e.g. Ctrl + Alt + End) -> click OK/Apply.
From now on just left-click on your shut down shortcut or hit that key
combination to turn off/restart/log off your computer. :)

FYI: Windows NT4/2000 owners can use this similar 3rd party ShutDown command
line tool [40 KB, freeware]:
http://www.regxplor.com/shutdown.exe



XP FIREWALL GUIDE



Dedicated to Pierre [http://pierre.szwarc.free.fr/] "of Xteq
[http://www.xteq.com/]", the inspiration force behind this article.

DEFINITION: The FireWall (FW) is a hardware or software based two-way monitor,
detector and filter (blocker/unblocker) of inbound [incoming = originated from
internet/network computer(s)] and outbound [outgoing = originated from
local/network computer(s)] data/packets, set to block/prevent/stop the
transmitting (broadcast) of unauthorized, personal, private and/or
local/network computer specific data/packets to dedicated internet/network
based servers/applications and the receiving (download) of unauthorized,
internet/network based adware, malware and/or spyware data/packets from
reaching/infesting the local/network computer(s).
More info:
http://www.webopedia.com/TERM/f/firewall.html

The Microsoft Internet Connection Firewall (ICF) bundled with all Windows XP
(Home, OEM/VAR + Professional Editions) and Windows 2003 Server (Standard,
Enterprise, Datacenter + Web Editions) is very primitive, and lacks many of
the advanced features which can be found in most similar 3rd party utilities.
More info @ MSKB:
http://support.microsoft.com/?id=320855
FYI:
Microsoft acknowledged that ICF (withOUT Windows XP ANP installed = see below)
blocks ONLY IPv4 traffic, NOT IPv6:
http://support.microsoft.com/?id=306203
MUST INSTALL:
But Microsoft [finally :)] released Windows XP Advanced Networking Pack (ANP),
which adds: Internet Protocol version 6 (IPv6), IPv6 Internet Connection
Firewall (ICF) and Peer-to-Peer (P2P) networking:
http://support.microsoft.com/?id=817778
STRONGLY RECOMMENDED:
Download and install a better FW [most are free(ware) for personal, non-profit
use] for increased protection: see these "FREE WINDOWS 9x/NT/2000/ME/XP
INTERNET MONITORS" in SOFTWARE.TXT (included) for examples.

ICF features: built-in internet based intrusion prevention tool designed for
users of broadband (xDSL, Cable, Satellite digital modems) and dial-up (analog
modems) connections, who are unaware of intrusion threats and of the need for
protection, enabled on a per-user interface (check box UI) basis, extends
Windows XP NAT (Network Address Translation) driver. Advanced features: ICMP
blocking options and activity logging.
NAT is explained @ MegaPath:
http://www.megapath.net/support/TechSupport/Equipment/Natdef.asp

ICF can be activated 2 ways:
- Automatically: whenever you create a new Dial-Up connection you will be
asked if you want to take advantage of the XP Firewall Services. Check the Yes
box to enable ICF for your particular connectoid.
- Manually: open Control Panel -> (double)-click Network Connections ->
right-click on your Internet/Network connection name -> select Properties ->
Advanced tab -> check the "Internet Connection Firewall" option -> click
Apply/OK.
Afterwards, it is advised to click on the Settings button to customize ICF to
your needs.
Default settings are only for outbound, and ICF is set to block only the few
ports/protocols Microsoft deems unsafe, which in default mode is way too
unsafe for every day browsing. :(
The good news is ICF blocks RPC calls to TCP port 135 (see port list below for
details) by default. :)
Start by making rules (as you should with any decent FW) for each app, domain,
protocol, port etc, separately for outbound and/or inbound, respectively.
A rule set does one of two things: (1) blocks [disables] or (2) unblocks
[enables] a particular app/port/protocol/domain/IP/server/computer/etc from/to
access(ing) the internet as a whole, or targets one or more specific
internet/network(s) port(s)/domain(s)/server(s)/computer(s).

More ICF info:
- Microsoft Windows XP Professional:
http://www.microsoft.com/windowsxp/pro/using/howto/networking/icf.asp
- MSKB:
http://support.microsoft.com/?id=283673
- DShield:
http://www.dshield.org/clients/windows_xp_firewall_setup.html
- Windows .Net Magazine:
http://www.winnetmag.com/Articles/?ArticleID=25348&pg=5
- World of Windows Networking:
http://www.wown.com/j_helmig/wxpmdfrw.htm
- Shaw Internet Online:
http://support.shaw.ca/networks/xpfirewall.htm
- Practically Networked:
http://www.practicallynetworked.com/sharing/xp/ic_firewall.htm
- XP ICF Log Reader [156 KB, freeware]:
http://home.online.no/~msols/XP_Log_Reader.zip

Most frequently used (a.k.a. common, known, assigned) ports in alphabetical
order [can't surf without them ;)]:
- DCE [port 135] = Distributed Computing Environment endpoint resolution
mapper [RPC (Remote Procedure Calls) locator service]. Used by fault tolerant
networks to remotely manage services and distributed applications. Always
block if not using such services/apps.
Broadcast port for messaging purposes only, used for example by Microsoft
Windows Media Player (WMP) to send personal data [talk about privacy! :(] from
users' computers to their spamming/spying "dedicated" servers.
- DHCP [ports 67/68 + 546/547] = Dynamic Host Configuration Protocol assigns
dynamic IP addresses to network devices, mandatory for net access. *Never*
block.
- DNS [port 53] = Domain Name System (or Service) translates internet Domain
Names (alphabetic) into IP addresses (numeric). Must be *always* open. Let
through 100%. [Duuuh! ;-)]
- Finger [port 79] = Interface protocol for RUIP (Remote User Information
Program) connections. Always block, unless using it.
- FTP [ports 20 (data) + 21 (control)] = File Transfer Protocol used for
uploading and downloading files to and from FTP host servers, which can block
unauthorized access by requesting user id and/or password. Block only for
outbound (outgoing), unless user id and/or password required to log on to
specific servers.
- Gopher [port 70] = Old text based data retrieval protocol, very rarely used
nowadays. Always block if not using any Gopher apps.
- HTTP [port 80] = HyperText Transfer Protocol defines the way web browsers
communicate (through client outgoing requests followed by host incoming
reactions) with host servers located on the WWW (World Wide Web), which
constitutes the largest internet "slice". Mandatory for web access. *Always*
let through, unless you refuse to surf the net. ;-)
- HTTPS [ports 443 + 445] = HyperText Transfer Protocol Secure. Used by SSL
(Secure Sockets Layer) and TLS (Transport Layer Security) protocols, for
example in web based monetary transactions. Block *only* if you do not make
any purchases over the internet nor wish to access any secure web pages.
- Ident/Auth [port 113] = Identification/Authentication protocol used by some
servers (like IRC) to uniquely recognize a user or computer upon query. Block
*only* if not using IRC or similar recognition software.
- IMAP [port 143] = Internet Message Access Protocol (gradually replaced by
IMAP4) used for sending and retrieving email to and from dedicated servers.
Unblock *only* for email apps using the IMAP standard.
- NetBIOS [ports 137 (name), 138 (datagram) + 139 (session)] = Network Basic
Input Output System. API (Application Programming Interface) used on LANs
(Local Area Networks). *Always* block, unless using NetBIOS on your network(s)
and/or on the network(s) you connect to.
- NNTP [ports 119 + 563] = Network News Transfer Protocol used to post,
distribute and retrieve USENET messages. Block *only* if not using USENET.
- NTP [port 123] = Network Time Protocol (UTC based) standard used by
dedicated atomic clock servers to adjust periodically the CMOS clock time on
client computers accurately. Block *only* if not using this feature.
- Ping [various ports, server dependent] = Packet Internet Groper used for
troubleshooting IP address connections through ICMP (Internet Control Message
Protocol). Always block, unless testing your machine's MTU (Maximum
Transmission Unit) by "pinging" your ISP (Internet Service Provider). :)
- POP3 [ports 110 + 995 (TLS/SSL)] = Post Office Protocol version 3 used for
sending and retrieving email to and from dedicated servers. Unblock *only*
for email apps using POP3 standard.
- SMTP [port 25] = Simple Mail Transfer Protocol used for sending email by
clients to servers and among servers. Unblock *only* for email apps.
- SNMP [ports 161 + 162] = Simple Network Management Protocol is a set of
protocols for managing complex networks. Unblock *only* if using SNMP based
network(s).
- TCP [various ports, application/server dependent] = Transmission Control
Protocol mandatory for connecting to and exchanging information with any host
computer. Let through on individual rule/app/server basis.
- Telnet [port 23] = Character based protocol used by Unix/Linux/BSD machines.
Always block, unless using any Telnet apps over the internet/network(s).
- TFTP [port 69] = Trivial File Transfer Protocol used for uploading and
downloading files to and from TFTP host servers, which do not restrict access.
Block only for outbound (outgoing).
- UDP [various ports, application/server dependent] = User Datagram Protocol.
Try to block when possible, especially to prevent private info "leakage".
Broadcast ports for messaging purposes only, used for example by Real(One)
Player (RP) and Microsoft Windows Media Player (WMP) to send personal data
[talk about privacy! :(] from users' computers to their spamming/spying
"dedicated" servers.

Most frequently used Trojan/Zombie ports [malware, *MUST ALWAYS* block!]:
- 123 + 10100 = GiFt.
- 146, 17569, 34763 + 35000 = Infector.
- 623 = RTB666.
- 901, 902 + 903 = Net-Devil.
- 1243, 6776 + 27374 = Subseven.
- 1560, 2001 + 2002 = Duddies.
- 2800, 3000, 3700 + 7000 = Theef.
- 3128 = Masters Paradise + RingZero.
- 5151 = Optix.
- 7410 = Phoenix II.
- 9696 = Ghost.
- 10528, 11051 + 15094 = Host Control.
- 12345, 12346 + 20034 = NetBus.
- 12348 + 12349 = BioNet.
- 25685 + 25686 = MoonPie.
- 31337 = Back Orifice.

FYI: See GLOSSARY.TXT (included) for terms definitions.

There are a total of 65535 ports (a.k.a. address numbers), used by networked
computers to create logical connections, and categorized as follows:
- 0-1023 = standard (known) ports: see examples above.
- 1024-49151 = registered ports (regulated): assigned by IANA to net based
services (e.g. ISPs).
- 49152-65535 = dynamic (private) ports (unregulated): unassigned, thus some
are available to knowledgeable hackers for privacy breaking purposes. :(

More info:
- Gibson Research: TCP/IP Ports:
http://grc.com/su-ports.htm
- AnalogX: IPSec and You:
http://www.analogx.com/contents/articles/ipsec.htm
- SANS Institute: Known Trojans Ports:
http://www.sans.org/resources/idfaq/oddports.php
- PC Flank: Ports Database:
http://www.pcflank.com/ports_services.htm
- Simovits Consulting: Trojan Port Numbers:
http://www.simovits.com/trojans/trojans.html
- Practically Networked: Special Application Port List:
http://www.practicallynetworked.com/sharing/app_port_list.htm
- Network Sorcery: IP Ports List:
http://www.networksorcery.com/enp/protocol/ip/ports00000.htm

Note that port numbers are assigned on a per application/server approval basis
by IANA (Internet Assigned Numbers Authority):
http://www.iana.org/
the world wide (global) profit-free organization responsible for managing and
distributing internet ports to companies, businesses, vendors, ISPs etc.
IANA posts periodically a complete list of all ports (must be in public
domain) and entities currently using them:
http://www.iana.org/assignments/port-numbers

Also, open the %systemroot%\System32\Drivers\Etc\SERVICES (plain text) file in
Notepad and take a look at the Microsoft list of known/used ports.

ICF guidelines: when you let an app through, open ONLY the TCP/UDP port(s) you
know it needs to use in order to operate over the internet/network(s), and
close ALL OTHER ports, especially the ones you know are on the "black" list:
see IANA's list of ports linked above for details.
Some of the known exposed (dangerous) ports are listed after you complete the
security port scan tests at Gibson Research:
https://grc.com/x/ne.dll?bh0bkyd2
and Sygate:
http://scan.sygate.com/prestealthscan.html

More internet security sites:
http://members.aol.com/axcel216/modem.htm#TS

A blocked app means that all its ports/protocols are closed as far as it is
concerned, both outbound (outgoing) and inbound (incoming).
You also need to make it work with your particular apps, and at the same time
have some degree of protection from "unscheduled outbound travellers". :)
[Quoted from the "Stargate SG-1" Sci-Fi TV series (original "Stargate" movie
spin-off) on cable in the USA = initially owned and aired exclusively by
ShowTime up to Season 5 (premium movie TV cable only channel in the USA):
http://www.stargate-sg1.com/
and now new Season 6 + 7 episodes appear only on SciFi (cable only TV channel
in the USA):
http://www.scifi.com/stargate/
and older episodes air on Fox (syndicated, over the air free network TV
channel, available in the USA).]
Try not to block/unblock both TCP and UDP within the same rule for the same
app/protocol, make separate rules for each, as you should also for outbound
and inbound, respectively.

Note that software based firewalls are never as secure as network/internet
routers/switchers/splitters that have built-in hardware based firewalls (low
level = block unwanted apps/ports before reaching the OS), because it is very
difficult and time consuming to block *every* dangerous port from within the
OS (high level = block unwanted apps/ports after reaching the OS).
Example: software FWs do NOT filter/protect NOR provide firewall services
whenever you start up or shut down your machine! Therefore, during the startup
and/or shutdown routines ANY user can connect to your computer and/or to ANY
running services/applications... feeling vulnerable already? :(
That's why I STRONGLY recommend, especially if surfing on broadband (xDSL,
Cable or Satellite) and/or using more than one PC to access the internet, to
purchase a good multipurpose 4 port (or more, depending on your needs) router
with built-in hardware firewall. The most popular is Linksys EtherFast
Cable/DSL Router with 4 Port Switch [model number BEFSR41]:
http://www.linksys.com/Products/product.asp?prid=20
which sells nowadays for under $70 (USD). More similar Linksys products:
http://www.linksys.com/Products/group.asp?grid=23
Shop before you buy: check PriceWatch for best deals:
http://queen.pricewatch.com/search/search.idq?qc=LINKSYS+AND+BEFSR41
These guys reviewed these routers for you:
- Small Net Builder:
http://www.smallnetbuilder.com/Reviews.php
- Practically Networked:
http://www.practicallynetworked.com/list.asp?p=1
- NeoSeeker:
http://www.neoseeker.com/Articles/Hardware/Roundups/internet_router/

IMPORTANT: *Always* allow full access to these 2 XP OS services (both files
reside in the %systemroot%\System32 folder, usually C:\Windows\System32):
- Alg.exe (Application Layer Gateway Service) = integral part of the built-in
ICF, controls FTP connections among other functions. Needs to run for the ICF
to work properly.
- Svchost.exe (Generic Host Process for Win32 Services) = integral part of XP
OS, mandatory to run at all times, it canNOT be stopped or (re)started
manually, loads/unloads/manages internal/external 32-bit DLLs/other services,
and in normal conditions more than one Svchost.exe instance/thread will always
be open.

IMHO:
As an avid internet user, I can't rely on XP's rudimentary ICF to take care of
business [nor should you! :)], so I reinstalled (been using it successfully
with Win98 SE and ME for quite a while) KPF (the "next generation" of TPF) on
my XP Pro machine, but you may "fancy" ZoneAlarm, Agnitum Outpost or Sygate
Personal Firewall better. No matter which one floats your boat, you should
create a few custom rules to close the most dangerous ports, just to avoid
intrusion nightmare.
That's because NO software based FW offers optimal protection right out of the
box. ;)
Check out these excellent freeware firewalls: see "FREE WINDOWS
9x/NT/2000/ME/XP INTERNET MONITORS" in SOFTWARE.TXT (included), or go to:
http://members.aol.com/axcel216/toy.htm#MON
A big difference between ICF and TPF/KPF is that both TPF and KPF [version
2.0.0 and above] use MD5 unique signature for file authentication, so
worms/trojans/zombies/bombs/etc can't go through, because they canNOT disguise
a valid MD5 code. :)
As the name implies ("Tiny"), KPF/TPF have a very small memory foot print and
occupy very little disk space, and at the same time provide much faster
operation than most other FWs.
TPF/KPF are also immensly more "tweakable", you can create/edit unlimited
rules for practically anything you want. :)
Both TPF and KPF keep a log of all, or whichever operations/events you like,
and the tool to "see" it, is of course, Tiny Logger (freeware).
Tiny Software:
http://www.tinysoftware.com/
stopped Tiny Personal Firewall (TPF) development of freeware FW editions at
version 2.1.5. The current full release (version 3.0) is time limited
try-before-you-buy shareware. :(
Tiny Software sold TPF 2.1.5 to Kerio Technologies:
http://www.kerio.com/
who further developed it into Kerio Personal Firewall (KPF), also freeware for
personal use (very stable, the one I'm currently using).
The beauty with KPF is that they can create (same as Agnitum Outpost FW)
add-ons called "plugins" which add more features, preset rules for specific
apps etc.

Related FW references:
- CERT: Home Computer Security Guide:
http://www.cert.org/homeusers/HomeComputerSecurity/
- Comprehensive Firewall Guide:
http://www.firewallguide.com/
- Firewall Net Guide:
http://www.firewall-net.com/
- Internet Firewalls: FAQs:
http://www.interhack.net/pubs/fwfaq/
- How It Works: Personal Firewalls:
http://www.pcworld.com/howto/article/0,aid,17012,00.asp
- Free Firewalls for Windows:
http://www.iopus.com/guides/free-firewall.htm
- The Enemy Within: Firewalls and Backdoors:
http://www.securityfocus.com/infocus/1701/
- All About Firewalls:
http://www.webtechgeek.com/center-Frame-FIREWALL.htm
- Internet Security links:
http://members.aol.com/axcel216/modem.htm#TS

Back to XP's ICF...
Go to: Control Panel -> Networks -> your Internet connection -> Properties ->
Advanced -> Parameters -> Services list -> Adjust -> Description of Service ->
type your own description [i.e. Windows Messenger UDP] -> Name/IP box -> type
your computer or IP name/address -> External Port -> check TCP or UDP -> click
OK or press Enter.
Note that a port you want open and an internal port unfortunately mean the
same thing in Microsoft's "lingo". :(
Now create a new rule for each port you want opened (or closed), folowing the
port table examples below for known applications.
Here are only a few, but you need to study the manufacturer's documents/guides
regarding specific port numbers assigned to your particular net apps, games,
tools etc:

App name		TCP port(s) used		UDP port(s) used
------------------------------------------------------------------------

* XP native apps:
-----------------

Messenger		6891-6900

Messenger Voice		6901				6901

NetMeeting		389, 522, 1503, 1720, 1731

* 3rd party apps:
-----------------

America OnLine (AOL)	5190-5193			5190-5193

AOL AIM			443, 563

ICQ			4000

IRC			6661-6667			1080-6660

MiRC/Virc		113

Napster			6699				6699

* Games:
--------

Asheron's Call		9000-9013

Battle.net		1024-49151			6112

Black and White		2611-2612, 6500, 6667, 27900

Crimson Skies		1121, 3040, 28801, 28805

Counter Strike Servers	26000-30000

Dark Reign 2		3100, 3568, 3999		3100, 3568, 3999

Descent 3		1900				1900, 2092

Diablo 2		4000				6112

			21 (patch)
Earth & Beyond		80 (client)			3000-4000
			443 (login)
			3805 (server)

Elite Force		26000, 27500, 27910, 27960

Everquest		1024-6000, 7000

Half Life		27015

MSN Gaming Zone		2880-29000, 6667

MSN Gaming Zone DirectX 2300-2400, 47624

Need for Speed		9442				6112

Need for Speed 3	1030

Outlaws			5310

Quake II		27910

Quake II/III Servers	26000-30000

Quake III		27960 (add 1 for each user)

Rainbow Six		2346, 2347, 2348		2346, 2347, 2348

Rogue Spear		2346				2346

Starcraft		6112				6112

Tiberian Sun		1140-1234, 4000			1140-1234, 4000

			5001-5010 (game)
			7775-7777 (login)
Ultima Online		8888-9999 (patch)		2346
			8800-8900 (messenger)
			7875 (monitor)

Warcraft III		6112				6112
------------------------------------------------------------------------

More frequently used ports @ MegaPath:
http://www.megapath.net/support/TechSupport/Equipment/ports2.asp

FYI: See "INTERNET TIME THROUGH XP FIREWALL" in TIPSXP.TXT (this file) to
learn how to synchronize your PC time with a dedicated time server while using
ICF.



GET BACK YOUR CD/DVD [+]



This is a two part BUG fix.

1. BUG:
Users of CD/DVD (re)writing software (Roxio/Adaptec Easy CD Creator +
DirectCD, Ahead Nero Burning ROM etc) may bump into error messages such as "No
ASPI devices installed" while using any of these utilities.
This is due to a flaw into the Adaptec ASPI Layer settings.
ASPI stands for Advanced SCSI Programming Interface, but this applies to ALL
(E)IDE/ATAPI/SCSI CD-R(W)/DVD-R(W)/DVD-RAM drive owners.

FIX:
Start by installing the current Windows NT4/2000/XP Standard ASPI Layer
drivers from Adaptec:
http://www.adaptec.com/worldwide/support/driverdetail.html?filekey=aspi_471a2.exe
Direct download [510 KB]:
ftp://ftp.adaptec.com/software_pc/aspi/aspi_471a2.exe
Make sure to use the INSTALL.BAT file provided with the package to copy ONLY
the appropriate drivers for these Win32 OSes: ASPI32.SYS
(in %systemroot%\System32\Drivers) + WNASPI32.DLL (in %systemroot%\System32).
Open Windows Explorer and delete (if present) WOWPOST.EXE + WINASPI.DLL from
%systemroot%\System.
Reboot when done.
Run ASPICHK.EXE (also included) to make sure you have properly upgraded to
version 4.7x.
Now copy & paste text between lines below into Notepad and save this as a .REG
file [name doesn't matter, only the extension does :)]:

-----Begin cut & paste here-----
REGEDIT4

[HKEY_LOCAL_MACHINE\SYSTEM\CurrentControlSet\Services\Aspi32]
"ErrorControl"=dword:00000001
"Type"=dword:00000001
"Start"=dword:00000002

[HKEY_LOCAL_MACHINE\SYSTEM\CurrentControlSet\Services\Aspi32\Parameters]
"ExcludeMiniports"=""

------End cut & paste here------

Finally, double-click on the REG file in Windows Explorer.
Reboot one more time.
Done.

NOTE:
If still having problems using your Roxio recording software, replace 2 with 1
on the "Start" line above, and then merge (run) the modified .REG file into
your Registry one more time.

FYI: Similar fixes:
- Microsoft Windows XP CDR Fix:
http://support.microsoft.com/?id=320174
- ASPI REG Fix for Windows NT4/2000/XP [2 KB, free]:
http://www.ntcompatible.com/ldownload.php?id=12
- Alex Nichol, MS-MVP: Burning CDs in Windows XP:
http://www.aumha.org/a/xpcd.htm
- Alex Nichol, MS-MVP: CD REG Fix [1.9 KB, free]:
http://www.aumha.org/downloads/cdgone.zip

2. BUG:
After installing/uninstalling Roxio (Adaptec) Easy CD Creator v5.0x, v4.0x or
older and/or DirectCD v3.0x:
http://www.roxio.com/
on/from your Windows NT4/2000/XP system, your
CD-ROM/CD-R(W)/DVD-ROM/DVD-R(W)/DVD-RAM drives may get suddenly lost. :( The
CD/DVD drive icon(s) may disappear from My Computer, Windows Explorer and any
other disk/file browsing app. Also, if you try to view/open/run any CD/DVD
based folder/file, you may encounter several popup messages linked to one of
these error Codes: 19, 31, 32, 39 and/or 41.

FIX:
But these BUGs can be fixed by hacking your Registry.
You must be logged on with Administrator rights to be allowed to edit the
Registry.
Fire up Regedt32 and go to:
HKEY_LOCAL_MACHINE\SYSTEM\CurrentControlSet\Control\Class\{4D36E965-E325-11CE-BFC1-08002BE10318}
Make sure Read only mode is disabled in Options menu.
BACKUP this Registry key BEFORE MAKING ANY CHANGES:
Highlight it -> click Registry from the File menu -> select Export Registry
File... -> browse to your desired location -> type a file name -> click Save.
Now look in the right hand pane for these 2 REG_MULTI_SZ Values:
"UpperFilters" and "LowerFilters". Right-click on each one, select Delete and
click OK.
Close the Registry Editor and restart Windows when done.
The catch is that after doing this you may also lose your CD/DVD recording
capabilites in WinNT4/2000/XP. :(
In this case, check the Roxio Support page:
http://www.roxio.com/en/support/roxio_support/software_updates.jhtml
for software patches/updates/fixes, and install the current ones applying to
your particular versions(s).
These Roxio FAQ pages may also provide some help:
- Easy CD Creator 5.0x Basic:
http://www.roxio.com/en/support/roxio_support/ecdc/ecdc_xpFAQecdcv5b.jhtml
- Easy CD Creator 5.0x Platinum:
http://www.roxio.com/en/support/roxio_support/ecdc/ecdc_xpFAQecdcv5p.html
Uninstalling and/or reinstalling the affected Roxio software may also solve
this issue.
If none of these methods work, then open Windows Explorer and (double)-click
the REG file created when you backed up the Registry key above to restore
the original values. Restart Windows when done.

FYI: More info + FIXes @ Microsoft:
- MSKB: Troubleshoot: Write Data to CD-R(W) Optical Disc in Windows XP:
http://support.microsoft.com/?id=324129
- MSKB: CD/DVD Drive Missing After Installing Windows XP:
http://support.microsoft.com/?id=320553
- MSKB: Windows XP Registry Fix:
http://support.microsoft.com/?id=314060
- MSKB: Windows 2000 Registry Fix:
http://support.microsoft.com/?id=270008
- MSKB: Windows XP Missing Files/Folders or Unreadable CD-R(W) Fix:
http://support.microsoft.com/?id=320174
- MS Expert Zone: CD Burning in Windows XP:
http://www.microsoft.com/windowsxp/expertzone/focuson/cdburning.asp



TEACH XP NEW TRACKS



Sent courtesy of Da Drk Sde@aol.com.

"I was a bit disappointed to find out XP could recognize and autoplay DVDs but
included no support for its little brother the VCD.
My disappointment was however short lived, when I stumbled upon a Registry key
I'd never seen before in Win9x. I wrote this document to show how I taught XP
to recognize and automatically play a VCD or SVCD when it is inserted into the
CD/DVD drive.

For those who are unfamiliar with VCDs, it's basically a CD that contains
movie files. The VCD (Video CD) format is comparable to the VHS standard in
quality and uses MPEG1 standard. The SVCD (Super Video CD) is closer to DVD
quality and uses MPEG2 standard. A full length movie generally occupies 2 to 3
CDs in VCD format or 3 to 4 in SVCD format.
From the number of disk switching you can see why Autoplay recognition is a
plus.
The Registry key in question is:

HKEY_LOCAL_MACHINE\SOFTWARE\Microsoft\Windows\CurrentVersion\Explorer\AutoplayHandlers\ContentTypeSniffers\VideoFilesContentSniffer

and the specific Value name we'll be modifying within this key is "RelPattern"
which is REG_MULTI_SZ (Multiple String). This Value type is properly
recognized only by Regedt32.exe, NOT by Regedit.exe, therefore Regedt32 will
be used in this case.
Note that there are quite a few zero terminated strings already in this
structure, and when we add our strings we must take care to preserve those
already there. The Edit box pops up with all elements in there selected, so
it's easy to type a single key and wipe out everything already present. Make
sure to click once in the box or use a cursor key so the data gets deselected
first. Then we can add these 4 strings after the last one in the structure:

MPEGAV\AVSEQ01.DAT
MPEG2\AVSEQ01.DAT
MPEGAV\AVSEQ01.MPG
MPEG2\AVSEQ01.MPG

Click OK and exit Regedt32.
All that's left is the association with the executable you want to use to play
video files, such as WMP8 or PowerDVD.
You could simply just leave it in prompt mode, so it asks what you want to use
to play every time a file with this extension is opened.

The VCD/SVCD standard is implemented loosely, but those 4 lines comprise the
majority of disks I've seen. As an aside, I'm of the opinion that this key and
its siblings are responsible for that annoying bug in XP where you're
sometimes unable to delete media files.
They are currently being sniffed, so you get the "in use" error.
Another possibility is they are being indexed with that Fastfind reincarnation
called Indexing Service.
A quick fix I've found for that is to open a command prompt to the folder you
want to delete the file from, then open Task Manager and End Task on
Explorer.exe and/or Cidaemon.exe. Then delete from the prompt.
Afterwards you can restart the shell from the Task Manager using the New Task
button."



FORCE XP STYLE THEMES



Even if you have turned on the Windows XP style themes (using the new
"Enhanced UI") for your apps/games: the XP built-in "Blue" theme [default,
also nicknamed "Teletubbies" :-)]:
http://www.theregister.co.uk/content/4/23830.html
or any other Windows Blinds/Styles XP compatible custom theme, available for
free at one of these web sites:
- ThemesXP:
http://www.themexp.org/
- Customize.org:
http://www.customize.org/
- WinCustomize:
http://www.wincustomize.com/
or if you created your own XP theme:
http://www.ibelite.com/articl.php?action=showcontent&sid=5&comments=5
you may have noticed that certain 32-bit programs (especially the ones you
have installed separately, not the ones included with MS Windows XP, MS Plus!
XP or MS Office XP), do not display the XP style theme properly, or not at
all, and their interface is flat (they are using the "Classic UI").
But the good news is you CAN turn on the XP style themes for most of your
32-bit (Win32) programs, by creating a dedicated manifest file, which MUST
reside in the respective program's main folder.
Start by (if not already) enabling the view of Hidden/System files in Windows
Explorer: click View -> Folder Options -> View tab -> check the "Show all
files" (including Hidden, System) box -> click OK until you close all dialog
boxes.
Now open Notepad and create a new text file with these lines:

<?xml version="1.0" encoding="UTF-8" standalone="yes"?>
<assembly xmlns="urn:schemas-microsoft-com:asm.v1" manifestVersion="1.0">
<assemblyIdentity version="1.0.0.0" processorArchitecture="X86"
name="CompanyName.ProductName.MyProgram" type="win32"/>
<description>My Program Description</description>
<dependency><dependentAssembly><assemblyIdentity type="win32"
name="Microsoft.Windows.Common-Controls" version="6.0.0.0"
processorArchitecture="X86" publicKeyToken="6595b64144ccf1df"
language="*" /></dependentAssembly></dependency></assembly>

Save it into your program's directory under the MyProgram.EXE.manifest name.
This file's extension MUST be manifest.
Replace MyProgram.EXE with your actual program name and extension.
Replace the "MyProgram" and "My Program Description" strings above with your
actual app/game name and description, respectively.
Optionally you can also replace the "CompanyName" and "ProductName" strings
above with the wording of your choice.
From now on, whenever you run this program, you will notice that it "shows
off" the currently used XP style theme.
Repeat these steps for any other of your 32-bit installed apps.

FYI: XP style themes are NOT supported by all 32-bit programs, so don't
expect all your apps/games (especially older ones) to "behave" this way. :(



STOP MSN MESSENGER [+]



1. Courtesy of Peter (peterrajan@hotmail.com):

"This tip works with Windows 2000 and XP using MSN Messenger 4.5 and 4.6.
MSN Messenger always loads automatically when visiting Hotmail and/or other
related web sites.
But you can prevent this from happening by hacking the Registry.
Open Regedit and go to:
HKEY_CLASSES_ROOT\CLSID\{F3A614DC-ABE0-11d2-A441-00C04F795683}\LocalServer32
Start by backing up this Registry key, in case you want to reenable it for
some reason in the future.
Delete the entire line which displays the path to MSMSGS.EXE from the
"(Default)" String Value: double-click on it -> delete the entire Value data
line -> click OK or hit Enter -> close Regedit.
MSN Messenger will stop loading from now on."

ADD-ON:
Alternatively you can run this REG file (name it NOMSN.REG for example) you
can create using Notepad, by (double)-cliking on it in Windows Explorer:

-----Begin cut & paste here-----
REGEDIT4

[HKEY_LOCAL_MACHINE\SOFTWARE\Classes\CLSID\{F3A614DC-ABE0-11d2-A441-00C04F795683}\LocalServer32]
@=""

------End cut & paste here------

UPDATE:
"This tweak did stop MSN Messenger, but as a result it also caused MS Outlook
Express 6.0 (OE6) to take an extremely long time to load (30 seconds). :(
After racking my brains out for days, I found 2 other Registry keys that need
to be modified in order to cut down on OE6's loading time.
Use Notepad to save this as MSNOFF.REG:

-----Begin cut & paste here-----
REGEDIT4

[HKEY_CLASSES_ROOT\CLSID\{FB7199AB-79BF-11d2-8D94-0000F875C541}\InProcServer32]
@=""
"ThreadingModel"=""

[HKEY_CLASSES_ROOT\CLSID\{FB7199AB-79BF-11d2-8D94-0000F875C541}\LocalServer32]
@=""

------End cut & paste here------

Use Notepad to save this as MSNON.REG:

-----Begin cut & paste here-----
REGEDIT4

[HKEY_CLASSES_ROOT\CLSID\{FB7199AB-79BF-11d2-8D94-0000F875C541}\InProcServer32]
@="C:\\Program Files\\Messenger\\msgsc.dll"
"ThreadingModel"="Apartment"

[HKEY_CLASSES_ROOT\CLSID\{FB7199AB-79BF-11d2-8D94-0000F875C541}\LocalServer32]
@="\"C:\\Program Files\\Messenger\\msmsgs.exe\""

------End cut & paste here------

Run MSNOFF.REG to turn these Registry keys OFF (speeds up OE6) or MSNON.REG to
turn them back ON (default)."
[Thank you Duke (dukemaster@home.com)!]

2. Courtesy of Micah (micahware@hotmail.com):

"To get rid of (uninstall) WinXP MSN Messenger permanently, click the Start
button -> click Run... -> paste this single line in the command box:
RUNDLL32.EXE ADVPACK.DLL,LaunchINFSection %windir%\INF\MSMSGS.INF,BLC.Remove
and finally click OK or hit Enter."

3. To prevent MSN Messenger from loading automatically whenever you access
your Hotmail (MSN) e-mail account, run Regedit and go to:
HKEY_CLASSES_ROOT\Messenger.MsgrObject
Right-click on the "Messenger.MsgrObject" Registry subkey above -> select
Rename -> replace entire original text string above with this one (example):
Messenger.MsgrObject-DISABLED!
-> click OK or hit Enter -> exit the Registry Editor.
Alternatively you can delete this subkey, but BACK IT UP FIRST!

4. To prevent MSN Messenger from loading/running in Win2000/XP, run Regedit
and go to:
HKEY_LOCAL_MACHINE\Software\Policies\Microsoft\Messenger\Client
Create if not present or modify if present these 5 DWORD [REG_DWORD] Values in
the right hand pane: right-click on an empty spot -> select New -> Key ->
DWORD -> name them respectively: "Disabled", "PreventAutoRun",
"PreventAutoUpdate", "PreventRun" + "PreventBackgroundDownload" (don't type
the quotes) -> right-click on each one and type 1 in the Decimal box -> click
OK -> exit the Registry Editor.
These settings will take effect after the next reboot.

5. To stop MSN Messenger from loading automatically upon every WinXP startup:
click the Start button -> click Run... -> type msconfig -> click OK or hit
Enter -> click Startup tab -> remove the check mark next to Windows Messenger
-> close Msconfig -> restart Windows.
Note that this way Messenger still loads when called upon by other apps like
Outlook, Outlook Express or Hotmail (MSN) web access.

6. To stop MSN Messenger from loading automatically upon every WinXP startup:
click the Start button -> click Run... -> type gpedit.msc (Group Policy
Editor = GPE) -> click OK or hit Enter -> select Per Machine Restriction ->
Computer Configuration -> Adminstrative Templates -> Windows Components ->
Windows Messenger -> change from automatic to manual or disable it. Then: Per
User Restriction -> User Configuration -> Adminstrative Templates -> Windows
Components -> Windows Messenger -> change from automatic to manual or disable
it -> exit GPE -> restart Windows.
In case after doing this Outlook or Outlook Express takes too long to open,
you need to also:
- MS Outlook Express -> Tools -> Options -> General tab -> turn off Messenger
Support.
- MS Outlook -> Tools -> Options -> Other -> turn off Messenger Support.

7. To prevent MSN Messenger from automatically signing in using a registered
Microsoft Passport account: click the Start button -> click Run... -> type
control userpasswords2 -> hit Enter or click OK -> click Advanced tab ->
select Manage Passwords -> delete all Passport entries -> click OK/Apply.
Then run MSN Messenger -> sign in -> type your passport, e-mail address and
password -> uncheck the "Sign me in automatically" box -> save your settings
and close MSN Messenger.

8. Courtesy of Michael (mtaylor685@hotmail.com):

"To permanently disable MSN Messenger when using Outlook (Express) or Hotmail
web site, simply rename the C:\Program Files\Messenger folder to
Messenger-OFF! (example).
This will effectively shut down Messenger, but not interfere with the loading
of Outlook."

9. The Windows Messenger service can also be stopped from starting every time
Windows loads by merging (importing) a Registry file I called STOPMSN.REG.
Copy & paste lines below in Notepad, save the file with the REG extension,
and then (double)-click on it:

-----Begin cut & paste here-----
REGEDIT4

[HKEY_LOCAL_MACHINE\SYSTEM\CurrentControlSet\Services\Messenger]
"Start"=dword:00000004

------End cut & paste here------

10. Get Doug's Disable Windows Messenger tool [7 KB, free]:
http://www.dougknox.com/xp/utils/xp_mess_disable.htm
which allows disabling/uninstalling Messenger from a straight forward
interface.

11. And finally... if (for any reason) you wish to reinstall Microsoft
Messenger Service: log on as Administrator/Sysadmin/Power user -> open Windows
Explorer -> browse to your %systemroot%\Inf (usually C:\Windows\Inf) folder ->
you may need to "unhide" it in order to "see" it, because by default the Inf
subfolder has the Hidden (H) attribute -> right-click on it -> select
Properties tab -> uncheck the Hidden box -> highlight the MSMsgs.inf file ->
right-click on it -> select Install -> you will be asked to pop in the Windows
XP Setup CD-ROM -> make it so -> done.

More info @ MSKB:
- Prevent Windows Messenger from Running:
http://support.microsoft.com/?id=302089
- Avoid Messenger Spam Messages:
http://support.microsoft.com/?id=330904

Get the current Microsoft Windows/MSN Messenger release + bug fixes from
"WINDOWS 9X/NT/2000/ME/XP/2003 ESSENTIAL SYSTEM ADD-ONS" in SOFTWARE.TXT
(included), also at:
http://members.aol.com/axcel216/web.htm#ADD



INTERNET TIME THROUGH XP FIREWALL



Courtesy of Jeromy (jeromy.stites@stonecomputer.com).

"Enable Internet Time Services behind Windows XP Personal Firewall:

The Internet Time service in its default state does not work with the Windows
XP Personal Firewall enabled on a dial-up connection.
To reenable this ability while maintaining your firewall follow these steps:
Go to My Network Places, and in the Network Tasks sidebar select View Network
Connections. Right-click your dial-up account and select Properties. Click the
Advanced tab and click Settings. Click Add and enter "Internet Time Service"
for the description. Enter 127.0.0.1 for the IP, and enter 123 for both the
External and Internal port numbers and select TCP. Click OK until the
Properties box disappears.
If you are online, a dialog box will appear telling you that you need to
disconnect and reconnect for the settings to take effect.
Now when you double-click the system tray Clock and select Update Now from the
Internet Time tab, it should work correctly."



XP SENDMAIL.DLL FIX



Courtesy of JT.

"I hate that when you right-click on a graphic file to e-mail it via "Mail
Recipient" from the SendTo menu, you have to deal every single time with that
annoying dialog box: "Do you want to keep the original size or change the
size?", and you are given 3 options to choose from. I also didn't like how
right-clicking on file sending places "Emailing:" in the Subject box.
In the Compose mail window you must also delete "Your files are now attached
and ready to send."
But I eliminated all these nuisances by altering WinXP's SENDMAIL.DLL [26 KB,
zipped]:
http://members.aol.com/files4u/XPDLLFIX.ZIP
Place the "fixed" file into BOTH your %systemroot%\System32 and
%systemroot%\System32\DllCache folders (default XP %systemroot% directory is
C:\Windows), overwriting the original ones.
You may have to go to DOS to actually be able to perform these replacements:
see "MS IE 5.5 SP2 + 6.0 FIX" step 6. SOLUTION from MYTIPS95.TXT (included) to
learn how to replace Windows 2000/XP system files already in use.
Reboot when done.
When trying to e-mail a pic, Windows XP may balk and refuse at first, but just
click on the red X to exit the error box, and then when asked if you are sure,
just say Yes.
PS: BACKUP your unmodified SENDMAIL.DLL FIRST!"

FYI:
This similar fix automates the file replacement process, but uses an older
SENDMAIL.DLL version:
http://www.exodus-dev.com/techtips/winxpie6sendmaildll.htm



WINXP PRO QOS FIX



Courtesy of Ross (r.jeffery@shaw.ca).

"This tweak applies only to Windows XP Professional.
It seems Microsoft reserves 20% of your bandwidth for use by the QOS (Quality
Of Service) Scheduler, which is intended to reserve bandwidth for important
applications, a rather wasteful choice.
To increase your bandwidth, do the following:
1. Make sure you're logged in as Administrator, NOT just with any account with
admin privileges!
2. Click the Start button -> Run -> type:
gpedit.msc
Hit Enter or click OK.
3. Navigate to Local Computer Policy -> Administrative Templates -> Network ->
QOS Packet Scheduler.
4. In the right hand pane double-click on the "Limit reservable bandwidth"
setting.
5. On the Setting tab check the Enabled box.
6. Change "Bandwidth limit %" to read 0.
7. Click OK and close Gpedit.msc.
8. Under Start -> My Computer -> My Network Connections -> View Network
Connections -> right-click on your connection -> select Properties (where your
protocols are listed) -> make sure QOS Packet Scheduler is enabled.
You need to reboot for these changes to take effect.

NOTE: All this is necessary to counter Windows XP's default behavior, which
reserves 20% of your bandwidth even with the QOS Packet Scheduler disabled. :(

Learn more about WinXP QOS @ MSDN:"
http://msdn.microsoft.com/library/en-us/qos/qosstart_2cdh.asp

More info @ MSKB:
- "QoS Traffic Control in Windows 2000":
http://support.microsoft.com/?id=233203
- "Description of Reservation State in RSVP":
http://support.microsoft.com/?id=244910

UPDATE:
"This does NOT increase bandwidth whatsoever for most internet users, UNLESS
your network administrator (I have yet to find any companies using QOS) is
running on a QOS enabled network, and in this case you would want it enabled
anyway, to allow for that service of higher quality packets to be received by
your PC."
[Thank you Nathan (jauncer@aol.com)!]



AVOID XP REGISTRATION



This procedure implies that you have NOT installed Windows XP on your PC yet!
To my knowledge ALL XP Gold (final) builds EXCEPT the Corporate (Volume
License) releases try to register your newly installed Windows XP copy at
Microsoft's web site upon the first normal bootup, right after Setup is
succesfully completed. :(
Note that the registration process (optional) is NOT the same as the Windows
Product Activation (WPA), which IS mandatory, except IF using a Volume License
(VLK) a.k.a. Corporate version!
By registering your copy of XP OS, you actually allow Microsoft to add your
personal information [name, company, address, phone number, e-mail etc... talk
about privacy :(] to their database, for the purpose (among others) of
providing you with technical support/help before (in most cases for free for a
limited time) and/or after (for a price!) the warranty period expires. But
registration is NOT mandatory NOR necessary in order to obtain technical
assistance from Microsoft, ONLY IF you purchased your Windows XP Setup CD
separately. This does NOT apply IF you purchased a new PC with Windows XP
preinstalled [and pre-registered :(], in which case your warranty and tech
support are usually provided by your 3rd party OEM/VAR/vendor/retailer.

To avoid registering your copy of Windows XP with Microsoft altogether [and
keep your private information private :)], and to force XP into thinking you
have already completed the registration process, just follow these steps:
1. Physically disconnect/unplug your modem/network cable/connection (if any).
2. Turn on (power up) your computer.
3. Start WinXP Setup and answer NO when asked to use Windows Dynamic Update
(WDU), which would (if enabled) connect to the Microsoft web site for
registering purposes. :(
If you are installing XP unattended (automatic Setup), you MUST add/modify
your Unattend.txt "DisableDynamicUpdates" line under the [Unattended] section
to read:

[Unattended]
DisableDynamicUpdates=yes

ONLY AFTER THAT run your automatic Setup batch file.
See "INSTALL XP UNATTENDED" in TIPSXP.TXT (this file) to learn how to Setup XP
in "hands-free" mode.
4. Right after your XP installation is completed, either:
- reboot to Safe mode, or
- avoid setting up your Internet connection when asked to, upon the first
reboot. Click Next or Skip instead. At this point the Internet Connection
Wizard will eventually crash, after clicking the Next button, but don't worry,
everything is cool! :)
5. Click the Start button -> select the Run box -> type:
regsrv32 -u regwizc.dll
Click OK or hit Enter. Then click OK or hit Enter again to close the next
confirmation dialog box, which effectively unregisters (deactivates) this DLL,
responsible for running the Registration Wizard, thus making it "invisible"
to Windows.
Optionally, you can also rename BOTH your Regwizc.dll files located both in
%systemroot%\System32 and %systemroot%\System32\Dllcache to something else
[i.e. Regwizc.dlx], to avoid having to repeat these annoying steps all over
again, whenever you install a Windows component/patch/update/etc that might
re-register (reenable) Regwizc.dll, which would force WinXP to register with
MS in the future, without your permission.
6. Run Regedit and go to:
HKEY_LOCAL_MACHINE\SOFTWARE\Microsoft\WindowsNT\CurrentVersion
Right-click on the "RegDone" String [REG_SZ] Value -> select Modify -> type 1
in the Value data: box -> click OK or hit Enter -> exit the Registry Editor.
7. Right-click on the Internet Explorer Desktop icon -> open Tools menu ->
click Internet Properties -> change the default home page to ANYTHING EXCEPT
ANY Microsoft or MSN web page -> click OK/Apply or hit Enter.
8. Reboot in Normal mode.
9. Right AFTER XP reboots, but BEFORE before Windows GUI loads, make sure to
plug back in/reconnect your (PnP or USB) modem/network cable/connection (if
any). This should normally be possible because WinXP OS is PnP (Plug and Play)
and USB aware, and should recognize (and automatically install proper drivers
for) such "hot-swapping" devices/peripherals.



INSTALL XP UNATTENDED (My ©trick)



This tip works if installing XP (all builds) as "upgrade" over any existent
Windows 95, 98, NT, 2000, ME or previous XP copy, as well as if installing XP
"from scratch" on an empty hard drive/partition.
If you own an OEM (Original Equipment Manufacturer), VAR (Value Added
Reseller) or Bulk/Corporate/Volume License Setup CD-ROM (released September 25
2001), or if you purchased the Full or Upgrade retail Setup CD (released
October 25 2001) of Windows (e)XP(erience) Home or Professional Edition, you
CAN install it in COMPLETELY UNATTENDED ("hands-free") mode, a *tremendous*
time saver!
Why unattended? Simple. Because this way the entire setup process is
automated, so you won't have to do ANY of this time consuming, boring stuff:
- Chose between a "fresh" install (if available) or upgrading (if available)
from a previous supported MS OS.
- Agree with MS EULA (End User License Agreement).
- Type in the XP Product ID number [25 digits! :(].
- Type in the drive letter and/or directory name where you would like your XP
copy to reside into, if you decide to install it to a path other than the
Microsoft "preselected" default (C:\Windows).
- Type in the Administrator (XP Pro) or Power User (XP Home) account name,
password(s), company name, workgroup, server name/IP address/ID etc.
- Select through all detected hardware/software lists and/or matching
language/local/regional settings.
- Push a bunch of OK/Yes/Apply/Cancel/Exit/etc buttons to answer all those
annoying popup confirmation dialog boxes/windows [nag, nag :(]... etc.
IMPORTANT: No matter which OS you upgrade to WinXP from: BACK IT UP FIRST!
If moving from your previous, stable, heavily customized/tweaked MS OS, you
may need to spend some time getting used to the new XP features (which was
built on the more secure and less prone to crashes WinNT 32-bit code),
especially if you were using Win95/98/ME exclusively.
If this sounds quite appealing or if it picked your interest even remotely,
please read on, you're in for a treat... :)

NECESSARY STEPS:

A. Automatic [boring :)]:

1. Pop in your XP Setup CD.
FYI: You DO own a CD-ROM/DVD-ROM/CD-R(W)/DVD-R(W) drive, don't you?
Otherwise you canNOT do this, because WinXP comes ONLY in CD-ROM format! ;-)
2. Fire up Windows Explorer or File Manager (FM = C:\Windows\Winfile.exe),
presuming you're running one of these MS Windows OSes: 95, 98, NT, 2000, ME
or XP. The complete list of supported Microsoft Operating Systems that can be
upgraded to XP is available here:
http://www.microsoft.com/windowsxp/pro/howtobuy/upgrading/matrix.asp
or as an alternative, you can download the free XP Upgrade Advisor for all
Win32 versions [32 MB !]:
http://www.microsoft.com/windowsxp/pro/howtobuy/upgrading/advisor.asp
3. Click on your CD/DVD drive icon/letter.
4. Go to the \Support\Tools folder.
5. (Double)-click on DEPLOY.CAB.
6. Highlight DEPLOY.CHM, REF.CHM, SETUPMGR.EXE + README.TXT.
7. Select your target path.
8. Click OK to extract them.
9. Go to the folder where you have extracted these files.
10. (Double)-click on the CHM files [one at a time :)] to read the detailed
guidelines on how to install XP in "automated" unattended mode.
11. Run SETUPMGR.EXE, which will guide you through the process of creating an
UNATTEND.TXT file.

NOTES:
- To be able to open the *.CHM files (using the MS HTML Help system), you need
to either own Win98, ME or 2000, or install (if you haven't already) the
current version of MS Internet Explorer (free):
http://www.microsoft.com/windows/ie/
which installs HTML Help engine (also available as a separate download):
http://msdn.microsoft.com/library/en-us/htmlhelp/html/hwMicrosoftHTMLHelpDownloads.asp
on all older Win95/NT4 releases.
Win95/NT4 users: get MS IE 5.5 SP2 [84.1 MB, English]:
http://downloads.evolt.org.uk/browsers/ie/32bit/5.5_SP2/ie55sp2.exe
Win98/2000/ME users: get MS IE 6.0 SP1:
http://www.microsoft.com/windows/ie/evaluation/ie6sp1.asp
- The CABinet Extract function may not be available if using Win95 or NT. In
this case you need to download the MS Win95 Power Toys Pack [204 KB, free,
unsupported]:
http://download.microsoft.com/download/5/2/e/52e8fd68-e528-4995-abe2-5644583536e1/W95powertoy.exe
and install Cabview.dll by right-clicking on Cabview.inf and selecting
Install, or get the CabPack tool [436 KB, freeware]:
http://home.t-online.de/home/lars.hederer/

B. Manual [more fun :)]:

1. Create a file called UNATTEND.TXT (file name is optional) to contain all
required and eventually optional sections and lines, customized to match your
particular hardware/software/user settings/wishes.
For a template, you can take a look at the two generic UNATTEND.TXT examples
found in REF.CHM.
Here is my UNATTEND.TXT file contents:

-----Begin cut & paste here-----
[Data]
MsDosInitiated="0"
UnattendedInstall="yes"

[Display]
BitsPerPel="24"
Vrefresh="100"
Xresolution="1024"
Yresolution="768"

[GuiRunOnce]
"DRIVE:\DIRECTORY\PROGRAM.EXE /SWITCHES..."

[GuiUnattended]
AdminPassword="*"
AutoLogon="yes"
AutoLogonCount="4294967295"
OEMSkipRegional="1"
OEMSkipWelcome="1"
ProfilesDir="DRIVE:\DIRECTORY"
TimeZone="010"

[Identification]
JoinWorkgroup="JOIN GROUP NAME"

[LicenseFilePrintData]
AutoMode="PerSeat"

[PCHealth]
Display="1"
ER_Display_UI="1"
ER_Enable_Applications="all"
ER_Enable_Kernel_Errors="1"
ER_Enable_Reporting="1"
ER_Enable_Windows_Components="1"
ER_Include_MSApps="1"
ER_Report_Path="DRIVE:\DIRECTORY"
Headlines="1"
RA_AllowFullControl="0"
RA_AllowToGetHelp="0"
RA_AllowUnsolicited="0"

[RegionalSettings]
Language="00000409"
LanguageGroup="1"

[RemoteInstall]
Repartition="No"

[SystemFileProtection]
SFCShowProgress="1"

[SystemRestore]
CheckpointCalendarFrequency="7"
CheckpointSessionFrequency="24"

[UserData]
ComputerName="YOUR COMPUTER NAME"
FullName="YOUR FULL NAME"
ProductKey="XXXXX-XXXXX-XXXXX-XXXXX-XXXXX"
OrgName="YOUR ORGANIZATION NAME"

[Unattended]
AutoActivate="no"
CrashDumpSetting="0"
DisableDynamicUpdates="yes"
DriverSigningPolicy="Ignore"
FileSystem="LeaveAlone"
NtUpgrade="no"
OemPreinstall="no"
OemSkipEula="yes"
Repartition="no"
TargetPath="DIRECTORY"
UnattendMode="FullUnattended"
UnattendSwitch="yes"
WaitForReboot="no"
Win9xUpgrade="yes"

[Uninstall]
DisableCompression="yes"
EnableBackup="no"

[URL]
Home_Page="http://members.aol.com/axcel216/"

[Win9xUpg]
Boot16="yes"
DefaultPassword="*"
ForcePasswordChange="no"
ForceWorkgroup="no"
IgnoreNetworkErrors="yes"
UseLocalAccountOnError="yes"
UserPassword="*"

------End cut & paste here------

All generic lines that need your input to enter actual information
between the quote marks are in CAPITAL letters.
You MUST replace all "X" symbols on the "ProductKey" line with the Product ID
number (25 digits in groups of 5 separated by dashes) found on your WinXP CD
sleeve.
All characters in both UNATTEND.TXT and XPSETUP.BAT are case insensitive,
except user names, passwords and URLs.
IMPORTANT:
If ANY of these lines are not valid, or do NOT match your system specific
configuration, Setup will display error messages and ABORT!
Example: I couldn't force my copy of WinXP Pro OEM Setup CD to upgrade over my
previous WinME installation, so I had to change the Win9xUpgrade="yes" line to
read Win9xUpgrade="no" under the [Unattended] section.
Note that if you are setting up XP (any release) on a computer running
Win95/98/ME, and select to install XP in a different directory, XP Setup will
detect your existing OS, and will allow you to dual-boot between them after
installation, from the WinXP boot menu.
OPTIONAL:
You can also force the default "C:\Documents and Settings" system folder to
install on any other of your (local) hard drives/partitions (provided you have
enough free space), and eventually change its folder name by typing the
destination of your choice on the ProfilesDir="" line (between the quote
marks), under the UNATTEND.TXT [GuiUnattended] section.
More info @ MSKB:
http://support.microsoft.com/?id=236621
2. Copy & paste the file contents into Notepad.
3. Of course you'll need to add/modify/delete some of/all these lines to adapt
them to YOUR OWN hardware, software, user and/or network settings, otherwise
you may experience errors/lockups!
4. Save it as UNATTEND.TXT or give it any other name you want. The .TXT
extension is NOT mandatory, it can be anything you want (.INF or .INI are both
supported). Keep in mind though, the file MUST have an extension, it will NOT
work if you name it only UNATTEND (or whatever) WITHOUT extension, because XP
Setup will "see" it as a folder name. :(
5. Use Notepad to create a DOS style batch file with the .BAT extension [I
called XPSETUP.BAT] to contain these lines [ONLY AFTER learning how to use
WINNT32.EXE and WINNT.EXE by reading the CHM files enumerated above!]:

-----Begin cut & paste here-----
@ECHO OFF
D:
CD\WINXP\I386
REM Use ONLY 1 of these WINNT(32) lines!
REM * Windows GUI mode Setup:
D:\WINXP\I386\WINNT32.EXE /UNATTEND3:C:\UNATTEND.TXT /DEBUG4:C:\XPDEBUG.LOG /DUDISABLE /S:D:\WINXP\I386 /TEMPDRIVE:C
REM * Native MS-DOS mode Setup:
D:\WINXP\I386\WINNT.EXE /S:D:\WINXP\I386 /U:C:\UNATTEND.TXT /T:C
------End cut & paste here------

More WINNT32 info @ Microsoft:
http://www.microsoft.com/windowsxp/home/using/productdoc/en/winnt32.asp

6. Modify XPSETUP.BAT in Notepad IF:
- your CD/DVD drive letter is different (D in this case): the "D:" instances
on lines 2, 6 and 8.
- the path where UNATTEND.TXT resides (C:\ root in this case) is different,
and/or you named UNATTEND.TXT to something else: the
/UNATTEND3:C:\UNATTEND.TXT switch.
- you prefer to have XP Setup create XPDEBUG.LOG (which BTW, can have any name
and/or file extension) somewhere else (C:\ root in this case): the
/DEBUG4:C:\XPDEBUG.LOG switch. After successful [or unsuccessful ;(]
installation completion, you can open XPDEBUG.LOG with Notepad to see if
anything went wrong, and eventually what/why.
- you would like XP Setup to copy the temporary installation files on another
drive (C in this case): the /TEMPDRIVE:C switch.
BEWARE:
The target drive letter and folder name where XP will be installed on your
computer are dictated by:
- The /TEMPDRIVE:C parameter (drive C in this case) on the WINNT(32).EXE line
of your XPSETUP.BAT file. If this parameter is not mentioned the default is
C:\$WIN_NT$.~LS.
- The TargetPath="DIRECTORY" line under the [Unattended] section of your
UNATTEND.TXT file. If this parameter is not mentioned the default is WINDOWS.
7. Place XPSETUP.BAT + UNATTEND.TXT anywhere you desire. You can even create a
new (temporary) local/remote folder for this purpose, just make sure to add
the UNATTEND.TXT path to the WINNT(32).EXE /UNATTEND: switch.
8. Copy the entire \WINXP folder contents by using the Windows Explorer
right-click Copy function to highlight and drag it from your WinXP Setup CD
to the root directory of your hard disk, to accelerate significantly the
installation process, and to avoid having to (re)boot from your MS OS
emergency bootup floppy.
If you are installing XP from native/real MS-DOS mode, which would slow setup
down to a crawl, you will also need to have the necessary MS-DOS mode CD-ROM
drivers loaded in your computer's memory beforehand, to be able to access and
boot from (if your mobo BIOS supports it) the Setup CD.
Therefore I STRONGLY RECOMMEND to avoid this alternative altogether if
possible, and start WinXP Setup from within Windows GUI, which is way faster!
9. (Double)-click on XPSETUP.BAT and wait.
The time necessary for Setup to complete depends mainly on your CPU,
motherboard chipset, RAM and hard disk subsystem capabilites.

C. Final step [optional :)]: get a cup of coffee, or whatever refreshment or
(soft) drink floats your boat, sit back, relax, and enjoy the show. ;)

Of course, if you care or need to customize an automated XP Setup even
further, eventually for installing WinXP on more than one computer, you could
use these handy programs, also included in DEPLOY.CAB, and explained in detail
in both CHM help files listed above: OFORMAT.COM, CVTAREA.EXE, FACTORY.EXE,
SETUPCL.EXE + SYSPREP.EXE.

More info:
- MS TechNet:
http://www.microsoft.com/technet/prodtechnol/windows2000pro/reskit/part2/proch05.asp
- MSKB:
http://support.microsoft.com/?id=155197
Need more help? Start a search @ Microsoft:
http://search.microsoft.com/
and type "unattended install" (no quotes) in the Search box.
- Tack Tech:
http://www.tacktech.com/display.cfm?id=202&object=article.cfm
- Tech Hints:
http://www.tech-hints.com/unatt.html

Gee! Writing this whole article took me longer than XP took to install on my
PC. :)
In the "aftermath" of a successful XP Setup: here I am, 35 minutes and 3
reboots later, staring at the new WinXP Pro desktop, which is showing off the
Windows Blinds "Luna" theme... but more about that at a later date. ;)
Have fun.



WELCOME ADMINISTRATOR!



To display the Administrator (master: Admin/Sysadmin) account on the Windows
XP Welcome logon screen, fire up Regedit (or Regedt32) and go to:
HKEY_LOCAL_MACHINE\SOFTWARE\Microsoft\Windows NT\CurrentVersion\Winlogon\SpecialAccounts\UserList
1. Create a new Value: right-click on an empty spot in the right hand pane ->
select New -> DWORD [REG_DWORD] Value -> name it Administrator -> click OK ->
double-click on it -> check the Decimal box -> type 1 -> click OK.
2. Modify (if present) the "Administrator" DWORD [REG_DWORD] Value: highlight
it in the right hand pane -> select Modify -> check the Decimal box -> type 1
-> click OK.
Close the Registry Editor when done.
From now on, whenever you logon as Admin/Sysadmin [ONLY IF you have
administrator rights to the computer you're trying to boot into :)] you'll see
the Administrator account on the Welcome display.



HIBERNATE OPTION



Whenever you want to logoff, shut down or reboot your Windows XP machine you
have only 3 choices (from left to right): (1) Standby [ONLY IF the ACPI/APM
function is properly enabled BOTH in your motherboard's BIOS AND in WinXP!],
(2) Restart and (3) Shutdown.
To properly enable Hibernation in WinXP: Start button -> Control Panel ->
Power Options -> Hibernate tab -> check Enable hibernate support box ->
Apply/OK -> reboot.
NOTE: If the Hibernate tab is unavailable your computer does NOT support it!
For some reason Microsoft did NOT enable the 4th option: (4) Hibernate, which
should be available on power saving (ACPI) enabled PCs and laptops. :(
But you CAN bring it back: just hold the Shift key while the Shut down menu is
displayed on your screen, and notice the Standby button being replaced by a
new, fully functional Hibernate button, which can be clicked with the left
button of your mouse. :)
If you release the Shift key, the Hibernate option will disappear once again,
to be replaced by Standby. Hocus-pocus! :)

FYI: More info @ Microsoft:
http://www.microsoft.com/windowsxp/pro/using/howto/security/hibernate.asp



AUTOREBOOT [+]



Windows XP and its more "advanced" brother called 2003 Server are advertised
as the most stable Microsoft OSes to date.
But nothing is perfect, and XP/2003 make no exception. :)
There are [still :(] those rare cases when a system fault/error/crash ends up
freezing the OS at the dreaded BSOD (Blue Screen Of Death), which displays the
cause of the crash and gives some details about the state of the system when
it crashed. The major annoyance is that it requires a "cold" reboot (reset) or
complete power shut down, to remind you why those 2 buttons on the front of
your PC case are meant for. ;) And moreover, if you are a system
administrator, requiring your server(s) to run non-stop 24/7, this can be a
pain in the neck.
But have no fear, the fix is here... :)
This Registry hack is valid for ALL NT, 2000, XP and 2003 releases.
To bypass the BSOD altogether and enable the instant "Auto Reboot" feature,
run Regedit and go to:
HKEY_LOCAL_MACHINE\SYSTEM\CurrentControlSet\Control\CrashControl
Right-click on the "AutoReboot" DWORD [REG_DWORD] Value in the right hand pane
-> select Modify -> change it to read 1 (Auto Reboot enabled) -> click OK ->
close the Registry Editor.
Restart Windows for the change to take effect.
From now on the OS will reboot upon locking up, right after writing to the
crash log file (if enabled).
To disable it, change the "AutoReboot" value back to 0 (default).



COMMENTS? LINK



Late into the beta program Windows XP introduced a new "Comments?" link
displayed on the left side of the top title bar of most Windows apps.
Its purpose is to send bug/error/problem feedback/report to Microsoft, but
some users don't like or use it, and besides, this "feature" also makes it too
easy to click on it by accident. :(
But here is the fix. Start Regedit (or Regedt32) and go to:
HKEY_CURRENT_USER\Control Panel\Desktop
Right-click on the "LameButtonEnabled" String value in the right hand pane ->
select Modify -> change it to read 0 -> click OK.
From now on you won't see the Comments? link anymore. :)
To reenable it, change the "LameButtonEnabled" value back to 1 (default).
And if you would like to customize the Comments? link, just change the text of
the "LameButtonText" String Value to have it display whatever you want, but
make sure "LameButtonEnabled" is also set to 1 for this to work.
Restart Windows for the changes to take effect.

NOTE: Microsoft removed the Comments? link from all final (Gold, RTM) Windows
XP releases. :(



WMP8 MP3 ENCODING



Courtesy of Ross (r.jeffery@shaw.ca).

"This Registry hack affects the MP3 encoding save rates for the new MS Windows
Media Player 8.0 (WMP8) included with Windows XP Gold (all releases).
To make this happen: open Notepad, save the text between the Cut & Paste lines
below as a REG file, and then merge it into your Registry by (double)-clicking
on it:

-----Begin cut & paste here-----
Windows Registry Editor Version 5.00

[HKEY_LOCAL_MACHINE\SOFTWARE\Microsoft\MediaPlayer\Settings\MP3Encoding]
"LowRate"=dword:0000dac0
"MediumRate"=dword:0000fa00
"MediumHighRate"=dword:0001f400
"HighRate"=dword:0002ee00

------End cut & paste here------

This corresponds to 56, 64, 128 and 192 KB/second rates, respectively.
Moreover, you can change the rates using these DWORD [hex] values for each of
the Registry entries above:

56 Kbps = dword:0000dac0
64 Kbps = dword:0000fa00
112 Kbps = dword:0001b580
128 Kbps = dword:0001f400
160 Kbps = dword:00027100
192 Kbps = dword:0002ee00
224 Kbps = dword:00036b00
256 Kbps = dword:0003e800
320 Kbps = dword:0004e200

Done."

IMPORTANT:
You need to install a dedicated encoder to be able to record/encode
audio/music/video using WMP8:
- Get Microsoft WMP8 Encoding tool [621 KB, free]:
http://download.microsoft.com/download/winmediatech40/wm8eu/8/w982kme/en-us/wm8eutil_setup.exe
More info:
http://www.microsoft.com/windows/windowsmedia/wm8/encoding.asp
- Get Radium MP3 Codec [883 KB, free]:
http://www.goeki.com/dvd/ra-codec1.2.zip