Yesterday I was working on a Dell system and wondered over to the technical support site for some information, and I noticed some information that I thought was interesting. We all have friends, family or clients who may inquire about specifics to there computer problems. Questions like networking issues, spyware, viruses and so forth that they may need help with. I have always found that besides a text description of the solution, it is helpful to have either links or pictures of the Windows that are being explained. So while on the Dell site I found the following information that may be of help and assistance.

Networking problems are always difficult to explain, especially by email or by telephone. On the Dell site was a section that covered most of the common networking problems that many of us encounter and with a detailed solution for each. Take a look and see what you think.

Questions about setting up a Workgroup, File Sharing & Printer Sharing are answered here. 

Viruses are another problem and are sometimes difficult to remove. On the Dell site they have recommended three online scanners to try, all of which are free to use. McAfee, Symantec and Trend Micro free online scanners.

Free Online Virus Scanners here.

Spybot Search and Destroy is one of the better free spyware remover programs. There are also settings to inoculate Internet Explorer from being changed by rogue programs. I was not surprised to find that Dell technical support recommends this freebie to find and remove critters from your system.

Malware - Spware removal recommendations are here.

I also came across this article which covers McAfee, Norton and Trend Micro software. What I found of interest is that there are procedures which are fully explained on how to use the products and also how to remove these from your system.

Security product info is here. 

There is also a section of known problems with Vista and also recommendations on how to optimize Vista on your computer.

Vista help center here.  

Another section deals with problems for XP systems.

XP help center here.

If you wonder around further, you will also find other information that may assist you in diagnosing common problems associated with the Windows operating system[s]. Also note that most of these solutions are not specific to Dell systems. Plus some of the software that is recommended are free for use.

Though I haven’t gone to other sites such as HP, Acer, and so forth, I would surmise they these sites can also be a treasure trove of information.

Comments welcome.

[tags]technicla, support, dell, windows, vista, xp, solutions, software, spybot search and destroy, mcafee, symantec, trend micro, scanners, online, free, help, assistance,  [/tags]