SCOTIA SYSTEMS BLOG

If’ you ever need to modify your Hosts file on either Windows 7 or Windows Vista, you’ll probably hit a warning that you need to be an Administrator to modify it?

Now this may seem odd as you’ve also probably already got Administrative rights on the PC?

This is a new safety measure originally introduced in Vista to stop rogue (spyware) applications from modifying hosts and redirecting traffic to other sites.

However, you can still modify the file:

Right Click on “Command Prompt” icon, and select “Run as Administrator”

cd \windows\system32\drivers\etc

notepad hosts

You should now be able to save the file without any problems.

Posted in IT Hints and Tips | No Comments »
Tags: Hosts, Vista, Windows 7

I’m often asked – “What’s the difference between the various editions of Windows 7″.

Here’s an excellent breakdown of the different features in each edition:

http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Windows_7_editions

The choices are easier than they were with Vista.   For Home users I’d recommend Home Premium due to the inclusion of Media Center (once you’ve played with this you’ll see why).

For Business – I’m torn between Professional and Ultimate.   One of the features in Ultimate which I’m keen to play with for businesses is “Direct Access”.   I’m surprised this isn’t included in the Business edition – as it’s clearly aimed as a business feature?   I’ll write another post once I’ve evaluated this feature against a 2008 R2 Server.

Posted in Windows 7 | No Comments »
Tags: Windows 7

Microsoft recently released a Beta of Internet TV for Media Center.  Here’s a mention from Engadget:

Engadget

Worked great when it was first released, however I’m now seeing the following message when trying to use on different PCs:

APPLICATION ERROR – There is a problem with the application at this time. Try again later.

Anyone have any tips on when the service will resume?   Only played with it for a few days and already miss it!

Posted in HTPC | No Comments »
Tags: Internet TV, Media Center, Windows 7