ForeSite Insight

Is 7 the Lucky Number for Microsoft's IE?

In many ways the number seven has been a significant number over time; there are 7 days in a week, 7 wonders of the world, and even the 7 dwarfs. So with Microsoft's introduction of Internet Explorer 7, time will tell if this too will become a noteworthy milestone in our culture.

This Microsoft IE is their first major update in five years, and boasts a number of new features. Increased security was the primary goal associated with this new edition. Quoting Bill Gates "Our primary goal is to improve security and safety for all our customers – consumers and businesses, regardless of size – through a balance of technology innovation, guidance, and industry leadership…"

While the new Microsoft browser seems to be well received in its first few weeks of introduction, security experts have exposed some minor weaknesses. So what exactly does that mean for those of us who simply click on the blue "e" on our desktop to connect to the internet? We should all be aware of the benefits as well as the drawbacks that IE 7 presents, and how it will impact our businesses. Click Here to view the top 10 things you should know about IE 7 Security.

Even more recent than the latest browser introduction is the addition of IE 7 to the "critical updates" section of Windows Update. Many of us allow these critical updates to automatically install overnight in order to keep our computers up to date. However, unlike previous versions of IE, the "latest and greatest" has one flaw which is directly impacting organizations every day. Though it is not a security threat by any means, version 7 is lacking in its integrations with managed desktop settings, which allows any user to easily make permanent changes to the home page. As many companies use their websites as the home page to maintain company wide branding, this has certainly posed a problem which will be addressed in the next IE service pack. Until then, companies who want to hold off on allowing IE 7 to automatically update, without disabling their critical updates can use the "Toolkit to Disable Automatic Delivery of Internet Explorer."

If you are unsure, or need assistance with this feature, simply contact us, and we will be happy to help.

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Quick Tips for Microsoft Outlook

Many of us use Outlook each day to keep track of our mail, calendars, and to-do’s. With our busy schedules it’s nice to have one central place to keep all this information. So here are a few quick tips to easily jump from one item to the next:

Go to Mail Ctrl + 1
Go to Calendar Ctrl + 2
Go to Contacts Ctrl + 3
Go to Tasks Ctrl + 4
Go to Notes Ctrl + 5
Go to Folder Lists Ctrl + 6
Go to Shortcuts Ctrl + 7
Go to Journal Ctrl + 8

Quick Email Tips

Forward Ctrl + F
Reply Ctrl + R
Save a draft Ctrl + S
Send/Receive all Ctrl + M
Spellcheck F7

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5 Easy Steps… To DESTROY your PC

1. Plug your PC into the wall without any surge protection. Won't it be fun trying to replace all the data that could be lost caused by an electrical surge from a storm or other issues on your home circuits?

2. Surf the Internet without a firewall, and never update your anti-virus or spyware programs. Isn't it too much of a hassle to continually update? If your PC gets a virus or your personal information is stolen, that will be much less of a nuisance to deal with!

3. Click on any and all attachments and links you receive in emails. Don’t worry about who they’re from… It’s probably safe.

4. Share Everything! Didn't your mother always tell you that sharing is caring? Keep your file and printer sharing enabled to let all that choose to, remotely connect to your computer and access your data.

5. Use passwords that are easy to guess. Don't you want everyone to have access to your information? (refer to #4, sharing!)? If you choose a password that is short and easily identified with you, then it will be a lot more convenient for someone to figure out. Use your birthday or a loved one’s name. Just don’t pick a long password with multiple character types, you won't be considered a good sharing buddy then.

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