Sumpmrother.com

Most Windows users (at least, the ones who run Windows Updates) know that part of the update process usually involves downloading the latest version of Microsoft’s Malicious Software Removal Tool (MSRT).  But, until now, little did any of us know that we could do a full system scan at anytime with the MSRT.

Undocumented by Microsoft, and apparently part of XP–all the way back to 2001, I presume–the MSRT can be launched at any time, so you’re not limited to just being able to scan during an Update.

To launch the application, click on the Start button, then on Run.  In the window that pops up, type in MRT and hit OK.  Once the app is open, click Next, and then click on Full Scan.  It can take a few hours to run, so it’s best to let it go overnight.  Assuming it finds any bad software–you know, like Antivirus 2009, Confickr, or a number of others–the MSRT will take care of healing the problems and removing the bad stuff from your machine.

This also works on Windows Vista, although not on Windows 7.  NOTE:  This does not replace using a good anti-virus program, and is intended to be used as a secondary safety precaution.

No, the Taskbar Shuffle is not some sort of country line dance.  For one, anyone who line dances probably has no clue what a taskbar is.  Secondly, it’s because it’s one of the most awesome programs I’ve ever used.

Basically, all is does is allow you to rearrange the programs on your taskbar.  That may not sound like much, but if you’re the compulsive type like I am, you might like to have your programs always in the same spot on the taskbar.  I always have My Documents, Outlook Express and Firefox open, in that order along the taskbar.  What sucks is when one of them is accidentally closed or crashes, and then they all end up out of order when I re-open one.

Now I no longer have the problem.  Simply click and hold the button you want to move, then slide it to where you want it and release.  This should really be standard in Windows, but since it’s not, it’s nice that a program exists that allows us to do it.

Link:  http://www.freewebs.com/nerdcave/taskbarshuffle.htm

I accidentally found this little program while browsing Newegg.com for a new mouse.  I use a Logitech with multiple buttons, but five of them were locked to factory settings for MediaPlayer and I wanted more control.  This program unlocks those five buttons as well as giving full control of all buttons on any mouse or keyboard that uses Logitech’s SetPoint software. 

Link:  http://www.mstarmetro.net/users/rlowens/