Computers & Technology

General

Click here for info on the South Plainfield Consumer Electronics Recycling Drop-off Program

Universal Class free online non-credit courses Universal Class : Free online non-credit courses for your personal enrichment, accessible 24/7 via the Internet! Computer courses include Adobe Photoshop, Computer Basics, Digital Photography, How to Create Web Pages, Internet Fundamentals, Microsoft Office, Quickbooks & Quicken, and more! You will have up to 6 months to finish each course, and each course has a real instructor you can communicate with by email! NOTE: Once you have registered on the site, you can go directly to the Login page. (From Recorded Books; site includes advertisements)

Annoyances - 'The most complete collection of information assembled for and by actual users of Microsoft Windows,' offering many tips and tweaks to make your Windows operating system more efficient and less annoying; includes discussion boards. Computer Hope and How-To Geek also offer helpful computer advice and discussion boards. (Sites include advertisements)

Computer Buying Guide - Guidance in choosing laptop or desktop, Windows or Macintosh, plus other information to help you buy and use your computer (Consumer Reports; full access only available with subscription). See also Consumer Reports News : Computers & Internet the latest computer news and developments from Consumer Reports' computer experts. Before you get rid of your old PC, cell phone, or mobile device, see Computer Disposal and E-cycling Central, below.

Computer Dictionary - Over 6,000 computer definitions and terms; you can search by keyword or browse alphabetically (Computer Hope). What Is? is another dictionary of computer-related terms; search by keyword, or browse alphabetically or by broad subject (site includes advertisements). Trend Micro's Security Glossary defines dozens of terms specifically related to online security, such as ActiveX, boot sector virus, and Worm. See also Bloggosary, 'a light hearted project to catalogue the blogosphere's vocabulary.'

Computer Disposal - 'Computers often hold all kinds of personal and financial information. If you're getting rid of your old computer, there are things to do before you log off for the last time so your hard drive doesn't become a 21st century treasure chest for identity thieves and information pirates.' This site tells you how (From OnGuardOnline.gov - Federal Trade Commission et al.). For additional advice, see Remove personal files from your PC new (Microsoft). For advice on safe disposal of cell phones and other mobile devices, see The 411 on Disposing of Your Old Cell Phone new (Federal Trade Commission).

Computer Rage - If computer-related aggravations have you tearing your hair out, get some vicarious & hilarious relief from these comic videos. (Dr. Kent Norman, Psychology Professor at University of Maryland)

Computer Tips - A large collection of computer tips and how-tos arranged by subject. Covers privacy & security; Internet, websites and e-mail; tricks, troubles and upgrades; operating systems; hardware; software and programs; and digital photos, video & music. (By Kim Komando, a radio talk show host and syndicated columnist; site includes advertisements)

Consumer Electronics Customer Support Contact Numbers - An alphabetical list of companies with customer support numbers, plus links to home page, support page, user manuals, support e-mail, and FAQ for each company, where available. Includes manufacturers of computers, personal electronics, digital entertainment products, software producers, and internet & media service providers. Last updated in April 2009. (Techlore.com; site includes advertisements)

E-Cycling Central - Click your state on the map to find the nearest reuse, recycling, and donation programs for old PCs and electronic products. Includes a Links section with additional resources for recycling batteries or mercury-containing lamps (Electronic Industries Alliance). Greener Choices Electronics provides solutions for dealing with old electronics, plus tips for buying new electronics that may last longer, and related information. (Consumer Reports). The South Plainfield Public Library accepts cell phones and empty ink & toner cartridges from computer printers or copiers for recycling — your donations help the library! Click here for info on the South Plainfield Consumer Electronics Recycling Drop-off Program. See also EPA e-Cycling Info, which includes links to major retailers and manufacturers committed to collecting, reusing, or recycling old electronics (U.S. EPA). Cell Phones for Soldiers will provide prepaid calling cards for U.S. troops stationed overseas in exchange for your donated cell phones ('batteries, chargers and accessories are not required but gladly accepted'). Or you can opt for Recycling for Charities, which will recycle your old cell phone, PDA, digital camera, iPod, ink or toner cartridge, to benefit the charity of your choice. Before you get rid of your old PC, cell phone, or mobile device, see Computer Disposal, above. See LampRecycle.org new to find out where you can recycle Compact Flourescent Light bulbs (CFLs), and how to handle broken bulbs safely. See also Recycling and Disposal After a CFL Burns Out new and What to Do if a CFL Breaks in Your Home (U.S. Environmental Protection Agency). For additional recycling links and related information, see our Green Shopping, Fair Trade, and Recycling links.

FCC Reboot - Consumer information about telephone, TV, and internet service, including bills & charges, accessibility, wireless/cellular/mobile services, digital TV, cable & satellite, internet security, emergency communications, and more. (Federal Communications Commission)

GCF Global Learning® Free Online Tutorials - Self-paced tutorials covering computer basics, Internet basics, e-mail skills, and even social media (Facebook, Twitter), as well as Microsoft Office (Word, PowerPoint, Excel, Access) and Open Office software; includes MS Office 2010 and Windows 7. Now offers free mobile apps for learning MS Office 2010 from your Android or iPhone! (Goodwill Community Foundation)

Microsoft Download Center - Gateway to updates & extras for Microsoft products including games, multimedia, Internet Explorer, Windows, Office, drivers, system tools, and more. (Microsoft)

Old Version - Are you still using an older computer that can't handle the latest versions of some popular software? Do you just prefer the older version of your favorite browser, media, or mail program? At this site you can download early versions of many Windows-based freeware and shareware programs such as Internet Explorer, AOL Instant Messenger, Acrobat Reader, Eudora, Winamp, WinZip, and RealPlayer (site includes advertisements). CAUTION : Always scan downloads with a reliable anti-virus / anti-spyware program before opening them. Be aware that outdated versions of software may be less secure than current versions.

PC World Magazine - Technology reviews, charts, how-to guides, articles, downloads, and pricing info. The Consumer Advice How-Tos and Windows How-Tos are especially useful. (Site includes advertisements)

Simplify Your System - This article from the August 2004 issue of PC World offers 50 tips showing you how to simplify Windows and your PC system from startup to shutdown, cut the clutter on your PC, and stop aggravations before they begin. For Windows 2000 and XP only, does not cover Windows 7 or Vista. (Site includes advertisements)

Smart Computing Daily Tip - A large searchable archive of brief tips to help you get the most from your PC, software, cell phone, and other electronic gadgets. There is also a helpful Tech Support archive with in-depth how-to articles on troubleshooting, error messages, drivers security & privacy, maintenance, hardware installation, and more. (Smart Computing; site includes advertisements and fee-based services)

Readability - 'Readability is a web & mobile app that zaps online clutter and saves web articles in a comfortable reading view.' It will also display the text in a size that doesn't require a magnifying glass to read! Some features are available only to paid subscribers. (By Arc90, a technology / design firm)

TechSoup - 'A comprehensive source of technology information just for nonprofit organizations,' but also useful for individuals and small businesses. Includes free downloads and other tools.

Twenty Things They Don't Want You to Know - This article from the August 2005 issue of PC World reveals 'some of what vendors are keeping mum, such as: You never have to pay full price, extended warranties rarely pay for themselves, and how to get rid of Windows Messenger. (Site includes advertisements)

Getting Started with Computers & Windows

If you are an ABSOLUTE BEGINNER, find a friend, relative, or librarian to help you get started with these sites:

Good Typing - Using a computer keyboard can really slow you down if you don't know how to type. This online tutorial offers step-by-step lessons for beginners; FREE REGISTRATION REQUIRED. Another good typing tutorial site is Peter's Online Typing Course.

Mouserobics! [UPDATED LINK!] - This site teaches you everything you always wanted to know about using your mouse: how to point, click and scroll; use check-off boxes, radio buttons, and drop-down menus; fill in forms; and copy and paste text. Lots of opportunities to practice. Formerly Mousercise. (Central Kansas Library System)

Mouse Tutorial- Another website for the absolute beginner shows you how to use your mouse to point, click, and scroll. (Montgomery County Public Libraries)

New User Tutorial - If you've never used a computer before, these lessons are for you! Covers pointing, clicking, scrolling, etc. (The Library Network, Southgate, MI)

Once you've mastered your mouse, it's time to move on to:

Using Microsoft Windows®

Windows Basics - Learn how to do basic tasks with the Microsoft Windows XP, Windows Vista, and Windows 7 operating systems. (By Jan Smith; site includes advertisements)

Windows Secrets - High-tech tips, reviews of Windows-compatible products (including free software), plus a free weekly e-newsletter with tricks and alerts for Microsoft Windows, Internet Explorer, Firefox, Windows Update, and more.

Windows 7 How-Tos - Advice on using the latest version of the Windows operating system. Covers Disabling Features & Annoyances, Networking & Sharing, Privacy & Security, Shortcuts & Hotkeys, and other Windows 7 Tips (How-To Geek; site includes advertisements). See also Windows 7 Help & How-to (Microsoft), Windows 7 for Dummies (Wiley Publishing, Inc.; site includes advertisements), Tips for Windows 7, Word 2007, & More, and Five Reasons Some XP Users Should Hold Off On Windows 7 (2009, PC World; site includes advertisements).

Windows Vista How-Tos - Advice on using the Windows Vista operating system. Covers Desktop Customization, Managing Files and Folders, Network and Internet, Security, System Administration, Windows Aero Glass, Tips and Tweaks (How-To Geek; site includes advertisements). See also Microsoft's Windows Vista® Performance & Tuning Guide (for Windows Vista and SP1), 20 Free Downloads to Tweak & Improve Your Vista System, and Vista SP2 : Six Things You Need to Know (2007 - 2008, PC World; site includes advertisements).

Getting Connected to the Internet

Choosing an Internet Service Provider (ISP) - Explains the pluses and minuses of dialup, DSL, and cable internet service. Comparing Internet Service Providers outlines the questions you need to ask to find an ISP that meets your needs. See also Internet 101: Connecting to the Internet (Goodwill Community Foundation) and Broadband Speeds : What You Need to Know (2010, Federal Communications Commission).

'Free' Internet Service - Before you take advantage of any free or low-cost internet service offers, please read the Federal Trade Commission's consumer alert on possible hidden costs which may be associated with them.

Go2Broadband - Enter your address to get links to cable services available at your location. (From a cable industry association)

Wi-Fi-FreeSpot™ Directory - A listing of locations such as airports, hotels, and other businesses which offer Free Wireless High Speed Internet Access. Covers US, Europe, and other regions of the world. To protect yourself when using wireless networks, see Wireless Security, described below.

Internet Basics

Can you trust Wikipedia? - The Guardian newspaper (UK) surveyed a panel of experts on the accuracy and usefulness of entries in the popular Wikipedia online encyclopedia in 2005. Their findings sound a cautionary note about the reliability of some internet resources. See also See Who's Editing Wikipedia (2007, Wired Magazine), and the page on Criticism of Wikipedia in Wikipedia itself.

Evaluating Web Pages - How do you know if the information you're finding on the Web is accurate and up-to-date? This site tells you how to find out. (Ohio State University Libraries)

Internet 101 - This introductory course explains what the internet is, how it is used, how to connect to the internet, and how to use web browsers & search engines. Visit the Internet Basics page to learn more about using the internet, including e-mail, online safety, and Facebook (Goodwill Community Foundation). See also Net Tutor, described below.

Internet Tutorials - Though this site does include explanations of basic internet terms and concepts, intermediate and experienced web searchers will find its tutorials on more advanced research techniques particularly useful. (By Laura B. Cohen, academic librarian)

Net Tutor - A complete online course in how to use the Internet. Lessons include Getting Started on the Web, E-Mail Basics, Searching 101, and more. (Ohio State University Libraries)

Online Etiquette ('Netiquette') - Tips to help you understand the written and unwritten codes of behavior for online communications such as chat rooms, blogs, personal 'spaces', forums, e-mail, instant messaging, and text messaging (Microsoft). See also Cyberethics (Microsoft) and Family Computing Guide to Netiquette (About.com; site includes advertisements).

Search Engines & Web Directories

Bing vs. Google - 'Want to compare Bing & Google results? ...Just put your query in the search box and press Enter. You'll see results from both engines side by side.' (Personal site: by web developer Domagoj Pavlesic)

Bloglines - 'Free online service that helps you subscribe to and manage lots of web information, such as news feeds, weblogs and audio. Bloglines tracks the information you're interested in, retrieves new stuff as it happens, and organizes everything for you on your own personal web news page.' Registration required.

Deep Web Tutorial - Describes the 'Deep Web' (also called the 'Invisible Web') and how to access it. The 'Deep Web' is that part of the Internet where ordinary web search engines don't or can't go, including databases, media/non-text files, and new or frequently changing content (by Laura B. Cohen, academic librarian). See also Research Beyond Google, a guide to searching the 'invisible web' to find authoritative information sources on a variety of subjects (2006, Online Education Database; site includes advertisements).

Foreign Search Engine Colussus - Links to search engines and web directories in hundreds of countries around the world; organized by country.

Google - One of the best and most popular search engines. You may want to try Soople, Google's easy search tool, or Google's list of special features for focused searches on movies, news, special file types, phone book, weather, and more. Google Labs, which previewed new services in development, is being phased out. Google Directory has also been discontinued. Additional Google Products include image search, book search, University search, shopping, blogger, maps, and various other useful tools. There is also a Google Blog Search and Google Mobile App for your smartphone.

Internet Archive - Many otherwise vanished web pages and similar 'born-digital' materials (or older versions of them) are still available at the Internet Archive. You can search the site for obsolete web pages, texts, audio, moving images, and software.

Ixquick Metasearch - Ixquick is a search engine that does not permanently store your personal user data (such as your search terms, links chosen, your IP address, User ID cookies, etc.). Read more about this feature on Ixquick's Privacy Protection page. Ixquick performs a metasearch using many popular search engines, including Ask/Teoma, MSN, Wikipedia, Netscape, Yahoo, and others (but not Google). Duck Duck Go new is another search engine that claims to provide 'way more instant answers, way less spam and real privacy'. The Yippy new search engines says it offers 'private, protected web browsing and search capabilities... a Family-Friendly platform, web-based email', and more.

Pandia - Extensive list of search engines and directories. Pandia's own search tools are not recommended.

Search.com - Search Google, Ask.com, MSN, and DMOZ all at once with this meta-search engine.

Search 22 - This site allows you to search 22 different search engines (including Google, Yahoo, Bing, and Ask) while entering your search terms only once, but you still must search the search engines one at a time. Options include regular search engines, meta-search engines, file search, news search, job search and more.

Web 2.0 Search Engines - A list of 25 new search engines that use 'Web 2.0' technology, aimed at increasing search result relevance. The list is divided into 5 categories: 'Mashups and Tagging', 'Rich Internet Application Search Interfaces', 'Social Networks', 'Visual Search', and 'Audio / Video Search' (2007, Online Education Database; site includes advertisements).

Yahoo! - Extensive and popular web directory. Use Yahoo! Shortcuts to find quick answers to common questions: maps, movie showtimes, airport information, dictionary or encyclopedia lookups, exchange rates, sports scores, stock quotes, weather, zip codes, and more. Yahoo Everything is an alphabetical index to all the different kinds of searches, resources, products, and services available through Yahoo, including Yahoo! Video and Yahoo! Music searches. There is also a Yahoo Mobile feature for your cell phone or PDA.

More Search Engines & Web Directories:

Search Engines & Web Directories for Kids:

E-Mail

BCC : Blind Carbon Copies - Do you forward jokes, photos, or other email messages to your family, friends, and co-workers? BCC, or blind carbon copy, allows you to protect their privacy when you do. Unlike addresses in the To: field or the CC: (carbon copy) field, addresses in the BCC: field cannot be seen by other users. This page explains how, when, and why you should use BCC. (US-CERT, Department of Homeland Security)

E-Mail Basics Tutorial [UPDATED LINK!] - Online tutorials teach you the essentials of email, in addition to other popular ways to communicate online in today's world. (GCF Global Learning)

Free E-Mail Services - Most Internet Service Providers (ISPs) will include one or more free e-mail accounts as part of your internet service package. For those without an ISP, this extensive directory provides a brief description of alternate e-mail providers. Also includes articles and tips for using e-mail, plus other related information (site includes advertisements). GMail (Google), Yahoo, and Hotmail (MSN/Microsoft) are popular providers of free e-mail service (Sites include advertisements). See also Snoop-Proof E-mail, a list of e-mail providers offering secure, encrypted e-mail services (Electronic Privacy Information Center).

Overcoming E-Mail Overload - Practical tips to help you efficiently manage e-mail on the job; many of these tips will be helpful for management of your personal e-mail, too. (2005, NPR; includes both audio and text versions; site includes advertisements)

Spam for Consumers- Help and info on dealing with spam and spam scams (Federal Trade Commission). SpamCop, a free service for reporting spam (or 'junk' e-mail) to network administrators (Ironport Systems, Inc.) offers more help with spam. How Spam Works explains how spammers get your e-mail address, and why so much annoying spam can get past your spam filter and wind up in your inbox. (HowStuffWorks, Inc.)

Web Page Design

BoogieJack - HTML tutorials, CSS tutorials, web graphics and other resources for webmasters. (By Dennis Gaskill, a web designer; site includes advertisements)

Building a School Website - Designed for beginners, this site clearly explains the basic concepts of creating a simple web page. Does not cover CSS or other more advanced elements of web design. (2007; Author site, formerly HTML in 5 Easy Pieces; by 'Wanda Wigglebits' / aka Jeanne Follman of Envision Group Consulting)

Flash Video Tutorials : Go to and Learn - Free video tutorials on creating a wide variety of video and image effects with Adobe Flash, Flex, and Air. (By Lee Brimelow, a web developer at Adobe)

In Pictures - Simple, easy-to-follow, illustration-based tutorials. Includes sections on HTML & CSS, MySQL Basics, PHP Basics, and Perl Basics. (No author name or credentials provided; site includes advertisements.)

J-Learning - Well-organized, informative tutorials on how to plan, build, and promote your website, with links to related resources. Written for journalists but most of the material will be useful to anyone putting together a website. Use the left-hand menu to navigate. (American University)

Webmaster Tools & Generators - Free online tools to help you easily create Flash navigational bars, Flash ToolTips, Flash Status Bars, Flash Drop-Downs, Flash Topbars and CSS Navbars; plus a directory of links to additional tools, tutorials, and web certification programs (American Association Of Webmasters). Web Design Tools links to all kinds of useful tools for the advanced web designer, including tools for accessibility, color, CSS, HTML validation, link checkers, XML, and more (University of Minnesota).

W3 Schools - Free step-by-step tutorials on HTML, XHTML, CSS, TCP/IP, browser scripting (JavaScript etc.), server scripting (SQL, ASP, PHP), multimedia, and more. Includes thousands of cut-and-paste examples, plus an on-line HTML editor so you can edit the examples and experiment with the code on-line. (By Refsnes Data, a software development and consulting company)

Word Processing & Other Applications

Apps & Services 2010 : Best Undiscovered Apps - PC Magazine's selection of the best new online tools to 'simplify your life and your workflow.' See also Apps & Services : 2010 Classic Apps, and Apps & Services 2009 : Best Undiscovered Apps. (PC Magazine; site includes advertisements)

CNET Software Downloads - One-stop source for software downloads (Windows, Mac, and mobile) and software reviews. Offers a huge number of free downloads; others are free to try, or for purchase only. Software categories include security, browsers, business, communications, desktop enhancements, developer tools, drivers, digital photo, educational, entertainment, games, graphic design, internet, home & hobby, MP3 & audio, networking, productivity, screensavers & wallpaper, utilities & operating systems, and video software. CAUTION: Always scan downloads with a reliable anti-virus / anti-spyware program before opening them. CNET also offers product reviews and tech news. (CNET.com, a CBS Interactive site; site includes advertisements)

Excel Tutorial - Step-by-step instruction in the basics of using Microsoft's Excel spreadsheet program. (By Dr. Sharon Garrison, a University of Arizona professor)

GCF Global Learning® Free Online Tutorials - Self-paced tutorials covering basic computer, Internet, and e-mail skills, as well as Microsoft Office programs (Word, PowerPoint, Excel, Access) and Open Office software. Now includes Office 2007 and 2010 (Goodwill Community Foundation). See also In Pictures, described below.

Gizmo's Top Picks of the Best Utilities and Tech Resources - A useful annotated selection of links to free PC information, how-to guides, utility programs, and more. (Personal site, by Ian 'Gizmo' Richards and a group of volunteer editors)

HP Online Classes - Free online classes in computer security, home office programs (Microsoft Excel, personal data storage 101, web site basics), digital photography, and more. Also offers free classes in business skills and IT (Information Technology) (Hewlett-Packard). Dell's Explore and Learn site also offers how-to advice about family safety, home office, home networking, home theater, gaming, digital photography, and more.

In Pictures - Simple, easy-to-follow, illustration-based tutorials for Microsoft Office 2003 & 2007 and Open Office, plus web design & web programming basics. (No author name or credentials provided; site includes advertisements.)

Learn List - A directory of selected tutorials on Photoshop, Fireworks, Dreamweaver, and a few other graphic design programs, as well as PHP, CSS and XML. (By Chris Robinson, a graphic designer)

MS Office 2007 Tutorials - This site offers outstanding lessons, basics through advanced, for using Microsoft Word, Excel, Access, and Power Point software (Florida Gulf Coast University). GCF Global Learning® Free Online Tutorials, described above, also offers tutorials on Office 2007 and 2010 programs.

Online Practice Modules - Basic tutorials for a number of popular software programs including Word, Excel, PowerPoint, DreamWeaver, and Windows & Mac operating systems. NOTE: Site may be slow to load and navigate. (By teachers Susan Brooks and Bill Byles; site includes advertisements)

Open Office - Free downloadable software, including a word processor, spreadsheet, presentation manager, and drawing program. 'An Open Source, community-developed, multi-platform office productivity suite.' GCF Global Learning® Free Online Tutorials, described above, offers tutorials on Open Office programs. AbiWord is another good, free, multi-platform word-processing program.

Zamzar Free Online File Conversion - Allows users to transform computer files from their original file format to a different file format — for example, you can convert a file in DOC format to a PDF, or convert a GIF image to a JPEG. Covers dozens of image, document, music, video, and other formats. You must enter your e-mail address to receive your converted files. Other file conversion sites include You Convert It and PDF Online. NOTE: In our tests (conducted June 2010), PDF Online was the most accurate of these three sites at converting documents with graphics and/or unusual fonts into PDF. To convert a PDF document into a .jpg image, try Convert PDF to Image. CAUTION: Always scan e-mail attachments and downloads with a reliable anti-virus / anti-spyware program before opening them. (Sites include advertisements)

Other Technologies (audio, video, camera, cell phone, etc.)

Digital Home DIY - Instructions for dozens of digital do-it-yourself projects including how to print labels on CDs and DVDs, video chat with your DV camcorder, improve your TV picture, burn TV shows to DVD, calibrate your speakers, convert a PC into a network server, optimize your wireless network, and more. CNET also offers product reviews new for camcorders, cell phones, computers & peripherals, digital cameras, home audio & video players, MP3 players, TVs, appliances, and much more (CNET.com, a CBS Interactive site; site includes advertisements). Dell's Explore and Learn site also offers how-to advice about digital photography, home theater, gaming, GPS and more. MediaShift is 'a weblog that tracks how new media — from weblogs to podcasts to citizen journalism — are changing society and culture' (PBS; site includes advertisements).

Digital Pictures - Basic lessons in taking, printing, and sharing digital photos (Kodak). See also Short Courses, a comprehensive online guide to digital cameras, digital photography, and digital video (by author/photographer Dennis P. Curtin; site includes advertisements). BigHugeLabs.com's Flickr Toys, Games & Utilities offers a large collection of free tools you can use to make calendars, posters, trading cards, wallpaper, 'lolcats' and lots of other fun stuff with your digital photos (site includes advertisements).

Digital Tips - This website unashamedly promotes the joys of owning and using consumer electronics, but there is also some useful information to be found amid the puffery, including tips and how-to videos for audio, digital TV, digital imaging, home networking, car and wireless electronic products. (Consumer Electronics Association)

Digital TV Transition - All full-power television stations nationwide have been broadcasting exclusively in a digital format since 2009. If you're still using an analog TV set, or are having problems related to the digital transition, this site provides information and resources, including interactive troubleshooting guides. (Federal Communications Commission).

Electronics Recyling - Links to information on recycling electronic products.

Electronics Buying Guides - These general buying guides from Consumer Reports are free to everyone (only paid subscribers have online access to the ratings and repair records for specific products): Digital Camera Buying Guide, Computer Buying Guide, and Cell Phones & Services Buying Guide; see also How to Buy a Prepaid Phone. See also Consumer Reports Electronics News (Consumer Reports)

Google Mobile - Quick answers via text messaging on your cell phone. Google also offers additional products for mobile devices. See also Yahoo Mobile.

HP Online Classes - Free online classes in digital photography, digital entertainment, personal interests & hobbies (genealogy, scrapbooking), and more. (Hewlett-Packard)

Juice Podcast Receiver - This free, open-source software for downloading and managing audio podcast subscriptions is an easy-to-use alternative to iTunes.

Lifehacker - Tips, shortcuts, and downloads that help you improve your digital (and life) productivity. (By author Gina Trapani et al.; site includes advertisements)

Media College - Free instructional resources for all forms of electronic media, including video & television production, audio work, photography, graphics, and web design. Hundreds of tutorials, plus reference material, free downloads, and a helpful forum. (By Wavelength Media, a New Zealand multimedia production company; site includes advertisements)

Preserve Your Digital Materials - Basic advice on how to preserve your digital photos, audio & video, email, personal records, and websites. (Library of Congress)

Techlore - User-contributed how-to articles on using home theater equipment, portable audio / video, PDAs, phones, satellite radio, cameras & camcorders, gaming systems, and more. Also includes discussion forums. (Capable Networks LLC; site includes advertisements)

Text Messaging on your Cell Phone - Explains the basics of using the numbers on a cell phone keypad as a keyboard to send and receive short messages (2003; The College of New Jersey). You can also watch an instructional video about How to Send Text Messages on Cell Phones [UPDATED LINK!] , plus many related videos & articles on the e-How website. Parents who want to know more about their kids' use of the cell phone should read Cell Phone Safety Tips (PTA), Mobile & Cell Phones [UPDATED LINK!] (Wired Safety, a non-profit / volunteer organization), and Cell Phone Health Risks, described below.

VoIP Phone Service - Explains VoIP (Voice over Internet Protocol), a technology which allows you to make telephone calls using a broadband Internet connection instead of a regular phone line (2010, Federal Communications Commission). See also Facts for Consumers : VoIP (2006, Federal Trade Commission).

Protecting Yourself & Your Family

BCC : Blind Carbon Copies - Do you like to forward jokes, photos, or other email messages to your family and friends? BCC, or blind carbon copy, allows you to protect their privacy when you do. Unlike addresses in the TO: field or the CC: (carbon copy) field, addresses in the BCC: field cannot be seen by other users. This page explains how, when, and why you should use BCC. (US-CERT, Department of Homeland Security)

Cell Phone Health Risks [Link opens a PDF document] - Explains the need for caution in the use of cell phones, based on advice from an international expert panel (University of Pittsburgh Cancer Institute). Limit Your Exposure To Cell Phone Radiation is a 'user-friendly interactive online guide to cell phone emissions, covering more than 1,000 phones currently on the market.' (Environmental Working Group). See also Hung Up on Cell Phones (UC Berkeley Wellness Letter, August 2010). Piercing the Fog Around Cellphones and Cancer new reviews the current evidence on this issue (2011, New York Times; site includes advertisements).

Computer & Video Game Addiction - As with other forms of addiction, an excessive absorption with computers or video games may result in major social, school or work disruptions. This fact sheet will help you recognize the signs of addiction in children or adults. (ParentFurther.com, National Institute on Media and the Family)

Computer Disposal - 'Computers often hold all kinds of personal and financial information. If you're getting rid of your old computer, there are things to do before you log off for the last time so your hard drive doesn't become a 21st century treasure chest for identity thieves and information pirates.' This site tells you how (From OnGuardOnline.gov - Federal Trade Commission et al.). For additional advice, see Remove personal files from your PC (Microsoft). For advice on safe disposal of cell phones and other mobile devices, see The 411 on Disposing of Your Old Cell Phone (Federal Trade Commission).

Computer Slang : Leetspeak - Aimed at helping parents understand how kids are communicating online, this article explains Leetspeak, 'a specific type of computer slang in which a user replaces regular letters with other keyboard characters to form words phonetically.' (Microsoft). Internet Acronyms is a handy reference guide to acronyms such as LOL, OTT, and IMO, which are commonly used in internet chat rooms and discussion forums (site includes advertisements). See also Internet Lingo new . You can use the Transl8it! site to translate SMS, text, emoticon, smiley, slang or chat room lingo into plain english, or vice versa (site includes advertisements). Parents who want to know more about their kids' use of cell phones and text-messaging should read Mobile & Cell Phones (by Wired Safety, a non-profit/volunteer organization) and Cell Phone Safety Tips (PTA).

Computer Workstation Ergonomics : How to Sit at a Computer - Describes health and comfort factors to be considered in setting up your workstation (American Academy of Orthopaedic Surgeons). See also Office Ergonomics (University of California) and Ergo Tips (Cornell University).

Consumer Information : Computers & the Internet - A library of useful fact sheets and guides relating to protecting yourself while using technology and the internet. Topics covered include Buying a Computer & Internet Access, Entertainment, Online Shopping & E-Payments, Privacy & Security, Spam Email, and Web Scams. (Federal Trade Commission)

Consumer Reports Online Security Guide - Lots of information and advice on the latest security threats; covers spam, viruses, spyware, phishing scams, ID theft, social networks, and kids online. Some articles are only available to paid subscribers. (Consumer Reports)

CyberBullying - 'Cyberbullying is when a child, preteen or teen is tormented, threatened, harassed, humiliated, embarrassed or otherwise targeted by another child, preteen or teen using the Internet, interactive and digital technologies or mobile phones.' This site offers information and advice to parents, kids (by age group), educators, and law enforcement officers on how to recognize, prevent, and deal with cyberbullying. (Wired Safety, a non-profit/volunteer organization)

Dot Cons - A brief overview of the most common online consumer frauds, with links and a toll-free number to get more info or file a complaint if you've been victimized. (Federal Trade Commission)

Internet Crime Complaint Center - Use this site to file a complaints over any type of crime committed over the Internet, including credit card fraud, retail fraud, investment fraud, auction fraud, etc. Formerly Internet Fraud Complaint Center (FBI and National White Collar Crime Center). The FBI also offers a web page on new e-scams and warnings.

Kids' Privacy - Provides practical tips for both parents and kids on protecting kids' privacy online (Federal Trade Commission). NetSmartz is another site with helpful net-safety resources for parents, kids, and teens (National Center for Missing & Exploited Children and Boys & Girls Clubs of America). Safety Net links to other resources that 'specialize in keeping children and adolescents safer online' (American Academy of Pediatrics). Cyber Safety provides links to information on identity safety, cyberbullying, cyber predators, piracy & plagiarism, and more; each page is divided into separate sections for educators, parents, and students. Use the righthand menu to select a topic (California Technology Assistance Project). B Net Savvy is an Internet safety website offering blog-style information (i.e., frequently updated) for adults who want to help teens and 'tweens connect safely, with sections on social networking, wireless devices, gaming, cyberbullying, safety, and privacy (National Education Association et al.).

Legal Guide for Bloggers - 'This guide isn't a substitute for, nor does it constitute, legal advice', but it offers 'a basic roadmap to the legal issues you may confront as a blogger' (2009, Electronic Frontier Foundation). See also Citizen Media Law Project's Legal Guide (Harvard Law School and Center for Citizen Media). Political bloggers should also check out the Net Democracy Guide for information about how their activities might be affected by campaign finance regulations (Center for Democracy and Technology).

Microsoft Safety & Security Center - Tips, tools, and alerts from Microsoft to help you protect your computer, yourself, and your family from hackers, viruses, fraud, and more. See also Security Tips & Talks new . (Microsoft)

Mobile Privacy: Lots of Big Brothers, Little Clarity new - 'What do you call software that collects and sends information about you to its developers, advertisers, and others? On a desktop, we're likely to name it spyware. But on a cell phone, tablet, or other mobile device we call it an app - never realizing that it might be operating much like spyware.' This article explains how services use mobile devices to track you, how data is shared among data services, and how safeguards differ among mobile platforms. (2011, Windows Secrets; site includes advertisements)

Passwords - Explains the whys and hows of creating strong passwords to protect your e-mail and other computer accounts and keep your private information secure. (University of Wyoming)

Phishing & Related Scams - Recommendations on how to avoid the fraud and identity theft that result from phishing, pharming and email spoofing, which use emails and websites that look safe but are actually stealing your personal information. (Anti-Phishing Working Group, a coalition of information technology companies, law enforcement agencies, international treaty organizations, government ministries, universities and research institutions)

Privacy Rights Clearinghouse - Practical tips on preventing or coping with identity theft, and safeguarding your personal privacy on the Internet and elsewhere. Links to many other groups addressing privacy issues. (Nonprofit organization)

Scams & Hoaxes - If you receive a dubious email or online message, check this encyclopedia of common hoaxes before you do anything else. Exposes false virus warnings, health scares, 'free' product scams, stories of Nigerian dictators, and much more. (Trend Micro, a company providing technology security products & services)

SafeKids.Com - Offers practical advice on protecting your kids' safety and privacy online. Includes links to related sites, plus kid-safe sites and search engines, an online safety quiz, and a 'Family Contract for Online Safety' for kids and parents to sign. A sister site, Connect Safely new , offers advice, news, and forums for parents & teens on safe, civil use of social networking sites and tools. (By broadcaster and syndicated columnist Larry Magid; site includes advertisements)

Security Starter Kit 2011 - Free downloads of recommended software for virus protection, spyware removal, in-browser security, firewall, encryption, and parental control. (CNET.com, a CBS Interactive site; site includes advertisements)

Security Software and Anti-Spyware Programs - Product reviews and related advice from PC Magazine (site includes advertisements).

Stay Safe Online - This website gives you the information you need to secure your home computer, including tips on how to safeguard your system, a self-guided cyber security test, educational materials, and other Internet resources (National Cyber Security Alliance). See also Looks Too Good To Be True for advice on recognizing and avoiding all kinds of online scams including identity theft, hacking, phishing / spoofing, spam, spyware, financial fraud, auction fraud, investment frauds, job scams, Ponzi & Pyramid schemes, auction fraud, sweepstakes / lottery Fraud, counterfeit payments fraud, and more; and OnGuard Online for more practical tips to help you be on guard against Internet fraud, secure your computer, and protect your personal information (U. S. Postal Inspection Service, FBI, et al.). Still more cyber-security tips are available at US-CERT (Department of Homeland Security).

Wireless Security : Protecting Your Wireless Network - An overview of the risks associated with using unsecured wireless / Wi-Fi connections to access the internet, with information on safer alternatives, and links to additional information (2010, Federal Communications Commission). See also Wireless Communications : Voice and Data Privacy (2010, Privacy Rights Clearinghouse), On Guard Online : Home Wireless Security (2010, Federal Trade Commission et al.), and The Zombie Network : Beware 'Free Public WiFi' (2010, National Public Radio; site includes advertisements).