Thursday, May 31, 2012
On 5:53 AM by Unknown No comments
[How to] Migrate to Windows 7 from Windows XP in simple manner
These are some of the ways in which you can take the backup of the your data in Windows XP and after migrating to Windows 7, you can restore that data using any of the tools mentioned above. However, even before you plan for a migration, make sure that you have a data backup in case of an unsuccessful migration.
First and foremost thing is to check whether your machine is capable of handling Windows 7 or not. You can visit Microsoft’s website to identify the system requirements for Windows 7. The most preferred way to see the actual requirements and validate if the computer is capable of running Windows 7 is running Windows Upgrade Advisor.
Windows Upgrade Advisor
First download the Windows 7 Upgrade Advisor. Once the tool is downloaded, run the tool and see the report that will give detailed hardware information and accordingly you can plan for Windows 7 Migration.
Microsoft released Windows 7 in 2009 and over the two years large number of users have migrated from Windows XP to Windows 7. This gives more concrete reason to migrate to newer platform from Windows XP. In this article we will discuss about the various way to migrate from windows xp to windows 7 in easiest manner. We will further take stock of the different ways that will help organizations in deploying Windows 7 flawlessly in their enterprise environment.
There are various ways to migrate from Windows XP to Windows 7. You can use the following tools to successfully migrate from Windows XP to 7 Migration:
There are various ways to migrate from Windows XP to Windows 7. You can use the following tools to successfully migrate from Windows XP to 7 Migration:
- Windows Upgrade Advisor
- Windows Easy Transfer
- USMT 4.0 & USMT 4.0 using Hard-Link Migration
These are some of the ways in which you can take the backup of the your data in Windows XP and after migrating to Windows 7, you can restore that data using any of the tools mentioned above. However, even before you plan for a migration, make sure that you have a data backup in case of an unsuccessful migration.
First and foremost thing is to check whether your machine is capable of handling Windows 7 or not. You can visit Microsoft’s website to identify the system requirements for Windows 7. The most preferred way to see the actual requirements and validate if the computer is capable of running Windows 7 is running Windows Upgrade Advisor.
Windows Upgrade Advisor
First download the Windows 7 Upgrade Advisor. Once the tool is downloaded, run the tool and see the report that will give detailed hardware information and accordingly you can plan for Windows 7 Migration.
Windows Easy Transfer
Windows Easy Transfer is free tool that is designed to take the user data and settings as a backup and store it on external USB device. This is recommended if you are migrating from Windows XP to Windows 7 on same machine. If there is network connectivity between the old computer and the new computer then you can directly transfer the data over the network. Lastly, if you have Windows Easy Transfer cable then you can use it to transfer data from the old computer to the new computer.
Windows Easy Transfer is free tool that is designed to take the user data and settings as a backup and store it on external USB device. This is recommended if you are migrating from Windows XP to Windows 7 on same machine. If there is network connectivity between the old computer and the new computer then you can directly transfer the data over the network. Lastly, if you have Windows Easy Transfer cable then you can use it to transfer data from the old computer to the new computer.
Once you are done with the data backup using Windows Easy Transfer, you can install Windows 7 on the computer. After the successful installation of Windows 7, you can run the Windows Easy Transfer on Windows 7 and restore the user data and settings back to the same computer.
Things to note, Windows Easy Transfer:
does not take the backup of Program Files
does not transfer the data from 64-bit Windows to 32-bit Windows
You can download Windows Easy Transfer for Windows XP and Windows Vista http://www.windows.microsoft.com/en-US/windows7/products/features/windows-easy-transfer
Things to note, Windows Easy Transfer:
does not take the backup of Program Files
does not transfer the data from 64-bit Windows to 32-bit Windows
You can download Windows Easy Transfer for Windows XP and Windows Vista http://www.windows.microsoft.com/en-US/windows7/products/features/windows-easy-transfer
On 5:43 AM by Unknown No comments
Install Android apps in Desktop [how to]
If you are using Android Smartphone and are in love with its applications and games, you may want to use it on your desktop too. The other way, even if you don’t have Android phones and you may still like to enjoy its applications. In whatever cases there is a solution, an application called “BlueStacks – app player for Windows” will fulfill your wish. BlueStacks apps might be the great options for people who like to enjoy Android apps in desktop and don’t have an Android phone and Android powered tablet. All you need to do is download and install BlueStacks application on your PC . This application is for free and you can find it in Google Play. BlueStacks, app player for Windows, is thus one of the best simulators for testing out Android apps.
After installation, when you run an application it automatically switch into the full screen mode. At bottom you see the Menu, Rotate, Zoom and all Apps buttons in the center with app navigation and close buttons at either side. The zoom button switches the apps between full mode and standard mode. You can also download additional Android apps from BlueStacks channel. For this click on Apps button and then get more apps.
If you are using for the first time then you have to login with you Facebook account. Once you logged in then choose and subscribe the apps which you want.
If you are using for the first time then you have to login with you Facebook account. Once you logged in then choose and subscribe the apps which you want.
The most exciting and interesting feature of this application is that you can synchronize the apps from your Android device to PC by using Bluestacks Cloud Connect. For this you have to install Bluestacks Cloud Connect apps on you mobile from Google Play. Once you have done with installation, to receive the PIN, open the Cloud Connect page on your PC’s browser, there you find Phone Pin of 9 digit. Now open the apps on your mobile and enter the pin no then you are almost done. Now select the apps which you want to sync with your PC but be careful while choosing the apps because there is a limit upto 35 applications at a time.
You might have to wait for some time for the apps to sync with your PC. When the process is completed, you can run all your Android device’s apps on your PC. Limits maybe sensor and location aware apps which might search for the same in your local windows. All Android apps will be installed locally in your windows program files folder.
You might have to wait for some time for the apps to sync with your PC. When the process is completed, you can run all your Android device’s apps on your PC. Limits maybe sensor and location aware apps which might search for the same in your local windows. All Android apps will be installed locally in your windows program files folder.
Tuesday, May 29, 2012
On 6:59 PM by Unknown 1 comment
Add caption |
Windows seven is the latest release of Microsoft corporation. Windows 7 is world’s highly used and trusted operating system till now. Microsoft hasn’t release any free edition of windows 7 to the current extent. You have to spend several dollars to purchase the genuine version of windows. It will make your pocket loose and I think you must be searching for the tips to make windows 7 genuine for free.
Make windows 7 genuine
Here I have a step by step tips to make windows 7 genuine guarantee. You have to follow the steps below in order to make windows 7 genuine for free. If you do not make your windows genuine then you might face problem after the completion of 30 days trial period. You might seen a black screen and a message to make windows 7 genuine. So, to get rid of all these things you have to make windows 7 genuine. Just follow the simple steps listed below to make your windows 7 genuine :
Make windows 7 genuine
1. First you have to download a small utility named RemoveWAT in order to make windows 7 genuine.
2. So, search, download and install the RemoveWAT free utility.
3. After the successful installation of RemoveWAT, you will see a screen with a Restore WAT button.
4. Click on the Restore WAT button and wait for some time.
5. Now reboot you computer system.
6. Done, you have successfully made your edition of windows 7 genuine.
I hope you like this post about how to make windows 7 genuine, please like our facebook fan page to support us.
On 6:46 PM by Unknown 3 comments
Boost Torrent Download Speeds Using UTorrent Turbo Booster
This tool is developed for getting your connections greater and making your downloading quick and much more constant by improving seed products which are almost missing during the deal. So now using this application you will be able to download your files at much greater speed.
So Now Simply click On Link Given below to download UTorrent Booster Enhancer Plugin :
http://utorrent-turbo-booster.software.informer.com/
uTorrent Turbo Enhancer is a latest plug-in designed to increase the
performance of probably the most popular P2P computer file sharing
program around – uTorrent. This application comes outfitted with today’s
technology that is designed at getting your data transfer rate way up
so you can pick up the information you want so horribly much faster than
you have been used to. Films, music, games, programs, you name it –
uTorrent Turbocom booster will provide at a fast rate. It will be there
doing its job in the qualifications without disturbing any other action
you might execute on your computer.
This tool is developed for getting your connections greater and making your downloading quick and much more constant by improving seed products which are almost missing during the deal. So now using this application you will be able to download your files at much greater speed.
So Now Simply click On Link Given below to download UTorrent Booster Enhancer Plugin :
http://utorrent-turbo-booster.software.informer.com/
Monday, May 28, 2012
On 1:39 AM by Unknown 2 comments
How to make your IDM (Internet Download Manager)?
Make Your I.D.M. 5x faster [100%working]
1. Click the icon IDM
2. Click Option
3. On the Connection / Speed, select Other in bps type this value 10000000, and the Default Max conn.number select 16
4. Close IDM
5. Run Regedit> HKEY_CURRE NT_USER> Software> Download Manager> (see the right window) Connection Speed> double click> select decimal> content with 9999999999 999> press OK
6. Close regedit
7. Try performing the download.
Make Your I.D.M. 5x faster [100%working]
1. Click the icon IDM
2. Click Option
3. On the Connection / Speed, select Other in bps type this value 10000000, and the Default Max conn.number select 16
4. Close IDM
5. Run Regedit> HKEY_CURRE NT_USER> Software> Download Manager> (see the right window) Connection Speed> double click> select decimal> content with 9999999999 999> press OK
6. Close regedit
7. Try performing the download.
Wednesday, May 16, 2012
On 6:55 PM by Unknown No comments
Searching your history in Chrome is fairly useful, but it could use some improvement. Enhanced History Options is an extension that gives greater flexibility in searching and clearing your history.
Finding a page you visited last week, month, or year can be close to impossible, especially if you're diligent about clearing your browser history. Enhanced History Options is an extension for Chrome that lets you improve your history search and customize what you clear. Here's how to use it:
Finding a page you visited last week, month, or year can be close to impossible, especially if you're diligent about clearing your browser history. Enhanced History Options is an extension for Chrome that lets you improve your history search and customize what you clear. Here's how to use it:
- Install Enhanced History Options here.
- Restart Chrome.
- Press Ctrl+H to open your history. A new tab opens featuring Enhanced History Options. You can sort by title, number of visits, or date of most recent visit, and search easily from the top bar by keyword and date.
- You have new clearing options, too. Of course, you can still clear all history with one click over on the right side of the page, but you can also clear a portion of your history by date range or keyword.
On 6:40 PM by Unknown No comments
The guide to password security (and why you should care):
In a better world, vulnerable accounts like banks, medical records, e-mail, and cloud drives would be protected with biometric systems. A swipe of a finger or a retina scan would allow access to your most important data.
Alas, eight-or-more-character passwords still dominate Web service log-ins. Anything from your investment portfolio to your Facebook account is simply accessed with an e-mail address (or username) and a few characters.
Yet, many Internet users continue to use easy-to-guess passwords like "123456," "qwerty," or their first names. Even worse, users repeat the same password (or a variation of one) across many accounts, putting themselves at greater risk of being hacked.
From password creation to password management, follow this guide to ensure your data is safe, secure, and prepared to withstand a security breach.
How are passwords exposed?
Before we dive into the how-tos of creating secure passwords, it's important to understand why you need a supersecure password to begin with. After all, you might be thinking, "Who would want to hack little old me?"
There are a few ways your account passwords can be compromised.
Someone's out to get you.
Enemies you've created, exes from your past, a nosy mother, an intrusive spouse -- there are many people who might want to take a peek into your personal life. If these people know you well, they might be able to guess your e-mail password and use password recovery options to access your other accounts. (Can you tell I'm speaking from experience?)
You become the victim of a brute-force attack.
Whether a hacker attempts to access a group of user accounts or just yours, brute-force attacks are the go-to strategy for cracking passwords. These attacks work by systematically checking all possible passphrases until the correct one is found. If the hacker already has an idea of the guidelines used to create the password, this process becomes easier to execute.
There's a data breach.
Sony, which wasn't careful in encrypting its user data, was targeted in a series of attacks where hackers (Lulzsec) exposed more than 1 million e-mail addresses, passwords, and accompanying data like home addresses and phone numbers. Most recently, a security hole was found in Max OS X's FileVault, where users' log-in passwords were available in plain text.
What makes a good password?
Although data breaches are out of your control, it's still imperative to create passwords that can withstand brute-force attacks and relentless frenemies. Avoiding both types of attacks is dependent on the complexity of your password.
Ideally, each of your passwords would be at least 16 characters, and contain a combination of numbers, symbols, uppercase letters, lowercase letters, and spaces. The password would be free of repetition, dictionary words, usernames, pronouns, IDs, and any other predefined number or letter sequences.
The geeky and security-savvy community evaluates password strength in terms of "bits," where the higher the bits, the stronger the password. An 80-bit password is more secure than a 30-bit password, and has a complex combination of the aforementioned characters. As a result, an 80-bit password would take years longer to crack than a 30-bit password.
Ideal passwords, however, are a huge inconvenience. How can we be expected to remember 80-bit (12-character) passwords for each of our various Web accounts?
Creating secure passwords
In his guide to mastering the art of passwords, Dennis O'Reilly suggests creating a system that both allows you to create complex passwords and remember them.
For example, create a phrase like "I hope the Giants will win the World Series in 2013!" Then, take the initials of each word and all numbers and symbols to create your password. So, that phrase would result in this: IhtGwwtWSi2013!
The next option is to use a password generator, which come in the form of offline programs and Web sites. The best choice here would be to use an offline generator, like the appropriately named Random Password Generator, so that your created passwords can't be intercepted.
While you experiment with different passwords, use a tool like How Secure is my Password? to find out if it can withstand any cracking attempts. This particular Web site rates your password's strength based on how long it would take to crack. If it's too easy, the meter will let you know what elements you can add (or remove) to strengthen it.
Check the strength of your passwords at the How Secure Is My Password site, which indicates how difficult your password is to crack, and whether it's on the site's common-password list.
(Credit: screenshot by Dennis O'Reilly)
Microsoft offers its own online strength checker, and promises that the form is completely secure. Mac users can use the built-in Password Assistant to check their passwords' security.
Keeping track of secure passwords
If you follow one of the most important commandments of passwords, you know that you absolutely must have a unique password for every service you use. The logic is simple: if you recycle the same password (or a variation of it), and a hacker cracks one account, he or she will be able to access the rest of your accounts.
Obviously, you can't be expected to memorize dozens of crazy, 16-character-long passwords.
This guide thoroughly explores the different options for managing your passwords, including things like storing them on a USB drive, and even writing them down. Although it's ultimately up to you, he presents a strong argument for using the ol' sticky note method.
Using a password manager
Password managers store all of your passwords for you and fill out your log-in forms so that you don't have to do any memorizing. One of the most secure and intuitive password managers is LastPass.
(Credit: LastPass Inc.)
LastPass is unique in that it is made of two parts, coupling an offline program with a browser plug-in. All encryption and decryption happens on your computer so that your data doesn't travel over the Internet and is not stored on any servers.
As you create new accounts or change your passwords, LastPass will ask you if you'd like to create them using its password generator, which is designed to generate hard-to-crack passwords.
If you choose those route, you'll still have to remember at least one thing: your master LastPass password. Do be sure to make it extra secure, and composed of at least 12 characters to ensure that it's not vulnerable to any brute-force attacks.
It's worth noting, however, that just like any software, LastPass is vulnerable to security breaches. In 2011, LastPass experienced a security breach, but users with strong master passwords were not affected.
Wednesday, May 9, 2012
On 7:34 PM by Unknown No comments
Learn Facebook Keyboard Shortcuts to get your work done on fingertips
Keyboard shortcuts are the best way to get the work done on your finger tips. They not only increase your efficiency and productivity but also make you look like a pro.
Your friends often wonder when you just use the keyboard shortcuts instead of wandering all over the screen using a mouse.
In Windows, it is common to find people using keyboard shortcuts. But, keyboard shortcuts in Facebook is more interesting as many of us spend most of our time on it.
If you are one among such hardcore Facebook users, you might want to check out the keyboard shortcuts.Your friends often wonder when you just use the keyboard shortcuts instead of wandering all over the screen using a mouse.
In Windows, it is common to find people using keyboard shortcuts. But, keyboard shortcuts in Facebook is more interesting as many of us spend most of our time on it.
It helps you to navigate around Facebook with ease and saves you time in the process.
Alt+1 : Return to Home page.
Alt+2 : To view Facebook profile.
Alt+3 : To pull down the Friends Requests list.
Alt+4 : To pull down the Messages list.
Alt+5 : To pull down the Notification list.
Alt+6 : To open the Account settings page.
Alt+7 : Account privacy configuration.
Alt+8 : Facebook fans group page.
Alt+9 : Facebook’s Statement of Rights and Responsibilities.
Alt+0 : Facebook Help Center.
Alt+m : Create new message.
Alt+? : Cursor in the Search Box.
These shortcuts are browser-specific, you will need to use different combination on different browsers.
Google Chrome : Alt + key
Internet Explorer : Alt + key, then press Enter
Firefox : Shift + Alt + key
Mac OS : Ctrl + Opt + key
Now use these shortcuts and leave your friends astonished. Let us know if you know some more such interesting shortcuts.
On 7:30 PM by Unknown No comments
Hack A Software and Run the Trial Program Forever:
In this post I’ll show you how to hack a Software and run the trial program forever.Most of us are familiar with many softwares that run only for a specified period of time in the trial mode.Once the trial period is expired these softwares stop functioning and demand for a purchase.But there is a way to run the softwares and make them function beyond the trial period.Isn’t this interesting?Before I tell you how to hack the software and make it run in the trial mode forever, we have to understand the functioning of these softwares.I’ll try to explain this in brief.
When these softwares are installed for the first time, they make an entry into the Windows Registry with the details such as Installed Date and Time, installed path etc.After installation every time you run the software, it compares the current system date and time with the installed date and time.So, with this it can make out whether the trial period is expired or not.
So with this being the case, just manually changing the system date to an earlier date will not solve the problem.For this purpose there is a small Tool known as RunAsDate.
RunAsDate is a small utility that allows you to run a program in the date and time that you specify. This utility doesn’t change the current system date, but it only injects the date/time that you specify into the desired application.
RunAsDate intercepts the kernel API calls that returns the current date and time (GetSystemTime, GetLocalTime, GetSystemTimeAsFileTime), and replaces the current date/time with the date/time that you specify.It works with Windows 2000, XP, 2003 and Vista.
NOTE: FOLLOW THESE TIPS CAREFULLY
You have to follow these tips carefully to successfully hack a software and make it run in it’s trial mode forever.
1. Note down the date and time, when you install the software for the first time.
2. Once the trial period expires, you must always run the software using RunAsDate.
3. After the trial period is expired, do not run the software(program) directly.If you run the software directly even once, this hack may no longer work.
4. It is better and safe to inject the date of the last day in the trial period.
For example, if the trial period expires on jan 30 2009, always inject the date as jan 29 2009 in the RunAsDate.
NOTE: FOLLOW THESE TIPS CAREFULLY
You have to follow these tips carefully to successfully hack a software and make it run in it’s trial mode forever.
1. Note down the date and time, when you install the software for the first time.
2. Once the trial period expires, you must always run the software using RunAsDate.
3. After the trial period is expired, do not run the software(program) directly.If you run the software directly even once, this hack may no longer work.
4. It is better and safe to inject the date of the last day in the trial period.
For example, if the trial period expires on jan 30 2009, always inject the date as jan 29 2009 in the RunAsDate.
Sunday, May 6, 2012
On 8:31 PM by Unknown No comments
Top Branded Laptops:
Acer:
Although the Acer brand doesn’t carry as much clout in the United States as it does in other parts of the world, Acer is one of the largest PC vendors in the world. This is an accomplishment which Acer has only recently been able to boast of, as Acer had been one of the smaller vendors until recently.
In the United States market the Acer brand generally stands for value. Acer’s Aspire One netbooks and laptops have consistently been among the least expensive products in their respective markets. Acer is not alone in this pursuit of value, however, and is sometimes unable to undercut competitors like ASUS and Dell.
In terms of overall build quality and design, Acer tends to lag noticeably behind the competition. It is rare for an Acer product to have a serious design problem, but lack-luster displays, flexible keyboards, and flimsy construction plague many Acer products. Acer products generally earn recommendations because they provide powerful hardware relative to their price, not because the products are well put together. Exceptions include the new Acer Ultrabooks and some of the Timeline laptops.
In the United States market the Acer brand generally stands for value. Acer’s Aspire One netbooks and laptops have consistently been among the least expensive products in their respective markets. Acer is not alone in this pursuit of value, however, and is sometimes unable to undercut competitors like ASUS and Dell.
In terms of overall build quality and design, Acer tends to lag noticeably behind the competition. It is rare for an Acer product to have a serious design problem, but lack-luster displays, flexible keyboards, and flimsy construction plague many Acer products. Acer products generally earn recommendations because they provide powerful hardware relative to their price, not because the products are well put together. Exceptions include the new Acer Ultrabooks and some of the Timeline laptops.
Apple:
Everyone knows Apple’s reputation. The brand is known for expensive, high quality products which are inflexible in terms of customization but are extremely well put together.
This reputation is one which is well deserved. From a design standpoint, Apple is on top of the world. Even their least expensive product, the white plastic MacBook, feels more solid than most competing laptops. The aluminum MacBook Pro line is in a class of its own. The MacBook Pro laptops have excellent keyboards, best-in-class displays, and large trackpads with solid multi-touch support. It is very, very rare for a MacBook Pro to not receive an editor’s choice award in a review.
Overall reliability doesn’t quite live up to Apple’s can-do-no-wrong reputation, but is still robust. Consumer Reports rates Apple’s failure rate at 17%, a little better than average, while Squaretrade rates the two-year failure rate at just over 10%, which is just slightly above average.
If something does go wrong, however, you’re very likely to end up with a happy resolution. Apple’s customer service is the best in the industry. This is thanks to short hold times and prompt resolution of problems. The Apple Store also gives Apple customers the option to visit the Genius Bar, where users can meet with a technician face-to-face.
Everyone knows Apple’s reputation. The brand is known for expensive, high quality products which are inflexible in terms of customization but are extremely well put together.
This reputation is one which is well deserved. From a design standpoint, Apple is on top of the world. Even their least expensive product, the white plastic MacBook, feels more solid than most competing laptops. The aluminum MacBook Pro line is in a class of its own. The MacBook Pro laptops have excellent keyboards, best-in-class displays, and large trackpads with solid multi-touch support. It is very, very rare for a MacBook Pro to not receive an editor’s choice award in a review.
Overall reliability doesn’t quite live up to Apple’s can-do-no-wrong reputation, but is still robust. Consumer Reports rates Apple’s failure rate at 17%, a little better than average, while Squaretrade rates the two-year failure rate at just over 10%, which is just slightly above average.
If something does go wrong, however, you’re very likely to end up with a happy resolution. Apple’s customer service is the best in the industry. This is thanks to short hold times and prompt resolution of problems. The Apple Store also gives Apple customers the option to visit the Genius Bar, where users can meet with a technician face-to-face.
ASUS:
One of the industry’s most innovative brands, ASUS is another example of a manufacturer which was not that well known in the North American market but which has recently been able to pick up steam. As with Acer, part of ASUS’s popularity has come from the outstanding value represented by many of ASUS’s laptops. Unlike Acer, however, ASUS is known for creating well designed, innovative products on the cutting edge of consumer laptop technology.
This is most apparent in their netbooks and ultraportable laptops. The ASUS Eee PC line is arguably the brand which proved that there was a market for netbooks, and over the last two years the Eee PC netbooks have been consistently superb. ASUS also has revolutionary ultraportables using ultra-low voltage processors which are capable of eight hours of battery life. Gaming laptops are another strong point of the brand, as the G53 and new G73 both provide excellent performance and value.
ASUS has been able to back up its innovative products with a solid reputation for reliability and customer service. While Consumer Reports lacks enough data to rank ASUS, Squaretrade’s data shows that ASUS laptops are the most reliable in their survey with a two year failure rate under 10%. Customer service is good over the phone, but the tech support website is confusing to navigate.
This is most apparent in their netbooks and ultraportable laptops. The ASUS Eee PC line is arguably the brand which proved that there was a market for netbooks, and over the last two years the Eee PC netbooks have been consistently superb. ASUS also has revolutionary ultraportables using ultra-low voltage processors which are capable of eight hours of battery life. Gaming laptops are another strong point of the brand, as the G53 and new G73 both provide excellent performance and value.
ASUS has been able to back up its innovative products with a solid reputation for reliability and customer service. While Consumer Reports lacks enough data to rank ASUS, Squaretrade’s data shows that ASUS laptops are the most reliable in their survey with a two year failure rate under 10%. Customer service is good over the phone, but the tech support website is confusing to navigate.
Dell / Alienware:
Once the world’s largest laptop brands, Dell took some lumps after the turn of the century which resulted in a loss of market share. Dells were functional, but boring. In response, Dell has dramatically stepped up its efforts to provide innovative laptops such as the Dell XPS and Alienware M11x.
Yet in spite of those efforts, Dell’s real strength remains in mainstream laptops. The Dell Inspiron laptops are generally good value, and I’ve particularly liked the Inspiron 14z I recently reviewed. The Vostro small business laptops are also decent choices for consumers, and some can be had with better-than-average warranties at no extra charge. Dell’s mainstream offerings are made more attractive by numerous customization options. While most laptop manufacturers sell just a handful of pre-configured models with a couple of options, Dell offers a wide range of options including better display panels and discrete graphics.
In addition, Dell’s Alienware brand is more competitive with ever, offering solid gaming laptops at prices that are competitive with many other boutique brands like Origin and Maingear (which are not covered here due to their small volume).
The reliability of Dell’s laptops is either average or poor, depending on who you ask. While Squaretrade ranked Dell in the middle of the pack with a two year failure rate of around 12%, Consumer Reports ranks Dell last with a failure rate of 20%. Dell’s customer service seems to be improving thanks to lower phone support hold times and better problem resolution. However, Dell could still do better in this area.
Yet in spite of those efforts, Dell’s real strength remains in mainstream laptops. The Dell Inspiron laptops are generally good value, and I’ve particularly liked the Inspiron 14z I recently reviewed. The Vostro small business laptops are also decent choices for consumers, and some can be had with better-than-average warranties at no extra charge. Dell’s mainstream offerings are made more attractive by numerous customization options. While most laptop manufacturers sell just a handful of pre-configured models with a couple of options, Dell offers a wide range of options including better display panels and discrete graphics.
In addition, Dell’s Alienware brand is more competitive with ever, offering solid gaming laptops at prices that are competitive with many other boutique brands like Origin and Maingear (which are not covered here due to their small volume).
The reliability of Dell’s laptops is either average or poor, depending on who you ask. While Squaretrade ranked Dell in the middle of the pack with a two year failure rate of around 12%, Consumer Reports ranks Dell last with a failure rate of 20%. Dell’s customer service seems to be improving thanks to lower phone support hold times and better problem resolution. However, Dell could still do better in this area.
HP:
Currently the world’s largest PC brand, Hewlitt Packard offers a huge variety of laptops. Design quality is, unfortunately, all over the map. HP’s ProBook business line and Envy line of premium laptops are both examples of what HP is capable of. HP also makes some very solid netbooks, such as the HP Mini 311.
The company’s mainstream Pavilion laptops have shown improvement over the last year. HP appears to be taking design elements from its upscale Envy line and applying them to less expensive laptops, which results in better-looking and more functional products. HP is doing a good job of making sure these improvements cover most of their range, and the number of their laptops that I would consider of average quality or better is increasing. Most HP laptops now feel solid and are pleasant to use.
HP’s reliability is among the worst in the industry. According to Squaretrade, HP laptops have a two year failure rate of around 16%, making HP the least reliable brand in their findings. Consumer Reports has little better to say, ranking HP as the second worst with a failure rate of 19%. HP’s customer service has improved substantially in over the last year, however. Laptop Magazine found that HP representatives were helpful and hold times were under 2 minutes. You may never even have to call, however, thanks to HP’s solid web support.
The company’s mainstream Pavilion laptops have shown improvement over the last year. HP appears to be taking design elements from its upscale Envy line and applying them to less expensive laptops, which results in better-looking and more functional products. HP is doing a good job of making sure these improvements cover most of their range, and the number of their laptops that I would consider of average quality or better is increasing. Most HP laptops now feel solid and are pleasant to use.
HP’s reliability is among the worst in the industry. According to Squaretrade, HP laptops have a two year failure rate of around 16%, making HP the least reliable brand in their findings. Consumer Reports has little better to say, ranking HP as the second worst with a failure rate of 19%. HP’s customer service has improved substantially in over the last year, however. Laptop Magazine found that HP representatives were helpful and hold times were under 2 minutes. You may never even have to call, however, thanks to HP’s solid web support.
Lenovo:
Spun off from IBM’s personal computing division, Lenovo is carries the sacred torch of the Thinkpad business laptop brand. Thankfully, it has treated this well regarded brand with respect. Today’s Thinkpads are among the best ever constructed. The T, X, and W series Thinkpads are particularly good. They offer the most durable construction in the industry, amazing keyboards and excellent trackpads.
In addition to the Thinkpad line, Lenovo has also created the new IdeaPad group of consumer computers. Quality of these products varies, but has been improving over time. The Z series is a solid if unexciting line of mainstream laptops, while the U series offers unique, luxurious build quality and design. Lenovo’s IdeaPads are often a great value, but suffer from poor battery life.
Surprisingly, Lenovo’s reliability isn’t outstanding. Squaretrade ranks Lenovo as fourth worst brand in the industry, with two year failure rates of around 13%, while Consumer Reports places Lenovo in the middle of the pack with a failure rate of 17%. Customer service is good, however, thanks to average hold times and helpful staff. It also seems that Lenovo still makes extensive use of IBM customer service centers located in the United States, which means that there is no language barrier to deal with (unless you have trouble understanding a southern accent!)
Verdict: B+
In addition to the Thinkpad line, Lenovo has also created the new IdeaPad group of consumer computers. Quality of these products varies, but has been improving over time. The Z series is a solid if unexciting line of mainstream laptops, while the U series offers unique, luxurious build quality and design. Lenovo’s IdeaPads are often a great value, but suffer from poor battery life.
Surprisingly, Lenovo’s reliability isn’t outstanding. Squaretrade ranks Lenovo as fourth worst brand in the industry, with two year failure rates of around 13%, while Consumer Reports places Lenovo in the middle of the pack with a failure rate of 17%. Customer service is good, however, thanks to average hold times and helpful staff. It also seems that Lenovo still makes extensive use of IBM customer service centers located in the United States, which means that there is no language barrier to deal with (unless you have trouble understanding a southern accent!)
Verdict: B+
Samsung:
A relatively new and still small laptop brand, Samsung has been trying hard to muscle its way into the market. Samsung is, of course, a very large consumer electronics brand that sells everything from HDTVs to phones, and their quality in other markets has generally been good. So far this quality seems to be trickling into their laptop products as well.
From a design standpoint, Samsung’s products tend to be uninspiring, a few exceptions aside. Unfortunately, the company has been spinning its wheels in this regard, and many of the newer Samsung laptops seem no more attractive – and in some cases, less attractive – than those sold a year or two ago. Because competitors like HP and Dell are making strides in the areas of build quality and design, Samsung is becoming less competitive.
Reliability is still up in the air because of Samsung’s status as a new player on the market. As is often the case with the newer brands, Samsung’s website provides poor customer support. The phone support is accurate and quick, but because other companies have made improvements to their own service, this is no longer as pleasing.
From a design standpoint, Samsung’s products tend to be uninspiring, a few exceptions aside. Unfortunately, the company has been spinning its wheels in this regard, and many of the newer Samsung laptops seem no more attractive – and in some cases, less attractive – than those sold a year or two ago. Because competitors like HP and Dell are making strides in the areas of build quality and design, Samsung is becoming less competitive.
Reliability is still up in the air because of Samsung’s status as a new player on the market. As is often the case with the newer brands, Samsung’s website provides poor customer support. The phone support is accurate and quick, but because other companies have made improvements to their own service, this is no longer as pleasing.
Sony:
Sony is the closet thing which the laptop market has to a premium brand (with the obvious exclusion of Apple). There is nothing in Sony’s lineup which is targeted to be a “budget” model. The pricing of their mainstream laptops usually starts around $600, and Sony offers numerous models above $1000. Sony is competitive in most markets, although the brand doesn’t offer a dedicated line of gaming laptops and doesn’t compete in the sub-$400 netbook market.
You don’t always get what you pay for. I’ve been disappointed by some of Sony’s recent laptop offerings. The problem is not that they’re becoming worse, but that competition is getting better. Vaio laptops that once were head-and-shoulders above the rest in design and quality now seem average. At least Sony still offers crazy colors – if you want a pink or lime green laptop, this is your brand.
The reliability of Sony’s products is about average. Squaretrade rates Sony as having a two year failure rate of just over 10%, making Sony the third most reliable brand. Consumer Reports ranks Sony as being the third least reliable brand with a failure rate of 18%. Sony also offers good customer service. Sony provides very comprehensive web service and hold times are short if you do need to call in.
You don’t always get what you pay for. I’ve been disappointed by some of Sony’s recent laptop offerings. The problem is not that they’re becoming worse, but that competition is getting better. Vaio laptops that once were head-and-shoulders above the rest in design and quality now seem average. At least Sony still offers crazy colors – if you want a pink or lime green laptop, this is your brand.
The reliability of Sony’s products is about average. Squaretrade rates Sony as having a two year failure rate of just over 10%, making Sony the third most reliable brand. Consumer Reports ranks Sony as being the third least reliable brand with a failure rate of 18%. Sony also offers good customer service. Sony provides very comprehensive web service and hold times are short if you do need to call in.
Toshiba:
One of the oldest players in the laptop market, Toshiba paints itself with an extremely broad brush. The brand doesn’t seem to boast itself as being a specialist in any one area and instead does everything. Netbooks, gaming laptops, mainstream laptops, ultraportables – if there is a market, this brand offers a product in it.
Usually this results in a dumbing-down of the brand overall, but Toshiba offers excellent products in every category. It is particularly strong, however, in netbooks, multimedia laptops and ultraportables.
Toshiba’s great products are backed up by great reliability. Squaretrade ranks Toshiba as the second most reliable brand with a two year failure rate of just under 10%. Consumer Reports gives Toshiba the top spot, with a failure rate of 15%. Customer service is average, thanks largely to a website which isn’t as helpful as it could be. If you have to call in you’ll typically find that hold times are short and that the customer service representatives are helpful.
Verdict: A-
Usually this results in a dumbing-down of the brand overall, but Toshiba offers excellent products in every category. It is particularly strong, however, in netbooks, multimedia laptops and ultraportables.
Toshiba’s great products are backed up by great reliability. Squaretrade ranks Toshiba as the second most reliable brand with a two year failure rate of just under 10%. Consumer Reports gives Toshiba the top spot, with a failure rate of 15%. Customer service is average, thanks largely to a website which isn’t as helpful as it could be. If you have to call in you’ll typically find that hold times are short and that the customer service representatives are helpful.
Verdict: A-
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