Use Bitlocker Encryption without TPM

While doing research on encryption methods for multi-boot netbooks and laptops, I came across this requirement for Vista and Windows 7. Microsoft needs a Trusted Platform Module (TPM Chip) to activate its encryption technology. This chip however, is not present in most lower end notebooks, or in most netbooks either.

There exists a workaround however. In the local group policy there's a setting that will allow you to turn on the ability to use a USB storage device instead of a TPM key to store your encryption key. The catch is, every time you turn on your computer, your USB storage device with the encryption key needs to be plugged in. Otherwise your computer will not boot. Your USB storage device has now become the key to your computer. Here's how to do it....

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Suspect malicious bots on your PC ?

Do you think your computer has been compromised by a botnet? Malicious software called Bots can quietly take control of computers making them participate in networks called “Botnets.” Without you knowing, these botnets can use your internet bandwidth to relay spam, attack web servers, infect more computers, and perform other illicit activities.

Trend Micro has a tool called RUBotted that can help you determine whether you've been Botted. It is small, lightweight and easy to use. It's available for Windows 2000, Windows XP, Windows 2003 Server, and Windows Vista.

1. Grab the program for free here.
2. Install it and check the box to run the program after installation.
3. Once installed, RUBotted should run and place an icon in your system tray.
4. If your system is clean, you will get a green check mark, and a message saying "No Bots Found".
5. The program will remain running in your system tray to constantly monitor your computer from now on, unless you disable it.

Re-Installing your Windows PC for a fresh start

We've all been there. Windows needs a fresh start every 6 months or so due to stuff accumulating in the registry or even more common these days, "Malware". Most of us jump into this task feet first, and realize midway through that we forgot to document important information from our old configurations and backup our files. WHOOPS!

IT departments, have this down to a science. Usually keeping virtualized images on a lan, or bootable Ghost images ready to go. Here are some tools and tips to help you get your fresh start done right.

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Removing Malware/Spyware

For OSX and Linux users, this isn't such an issue at the moment. However, for those who have to work in a Windows environment, you are forced to deal with Malware/Spyware sooner or later.

There are many solutions out there, some better than others, some free, some commercial. Here's a list of known apps I've used in the field...

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Identify mysterious Windows processes

Ever wondered what the multiple svchost.exe or other generic process listed in Windows XP's task manager are used for? Next time you need to stop or restart a stalled process try this: Open the command prompt by typing "cmd" from the "start/run" window. In the command prompt type "tasklist /svc". This will list your processes and the programs that are using them.

In Vista or Windows 7 it's much simpler. Go to the Task manager, right click on the process, and click "go to services". This will detail which programs are being used by the particular service.