class="align-left" style="border: 0px none; margin-left: 20px; margin-top: 5px; float: right;" src="http://main.makeuseoflimited.netdna-cdn.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/01/00-Orbit-Logo.jpg" border="0" alt="orbit downloader" width="220" height="220" />Apple has released class="vt-p" href="http://www.makeuseof.com/tag/apples-mac-app-store-live-news">the Mac App Store – a place where Mac users can find and download great Mac applications. This iOS App Store little brother has a similar behavior to its sibling: it will help users to keep their apps updated. When an updated version of any installed apps are available, users will be notified and they can easily download the updates from within the App Store.

Windows users who wish that this convenience could also be made available to them should keep their fingers crossed, because Microsoft is currently trying to persuade the court that the term “App Store” is too generic to be granted protection. The court may or may not approve Microsoft’s dispute, but while waiting for the verdict, why not try a combination of tools that are already available for Windows: class="vt-p" href="http://www.makeuseof.com/dir/orbitdownloader/">Orbit Downloader and class="vt-p" href="http://www.recipester.org/">Recipester. These tools can help Windows users keep their applications updated, while helping users learn more about the apps.

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The Software Updater

I found this feature by accident after I upgraded Orbit Downloader to version 4. There’s a new item in the left pane called “Software Updater” with a pair of numbers written after it.

style="text-align: center;"> class="aligncenter" src="http://main.makeuseoflimited.netdna-cdn.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/01/05a_Orbit_-_Software_Update.jpg" border="0" alt="orbit downloader" width="580" height="350" />

After clicking on it, the main area of the app showed me a list of updateable software on my computer. The pair of numbers represented the number of installed software and how many of them had updates waiting. Orbit gets this data by scanning the hard drive for the version number of installed software, then comparing the result with the list of the latest software releases on their database.

Clicking on any item on the list will open up more information about that software, such as the developer, the number of users, how many reviews it has, questions, tutorials, votes related to the app; and also buttons to “Write a Review“, “Ask a Question“, and “Visit Software Page“.

style="text-align: center;"> class="aligncenter" src="http://main.makeuseoflimited.netdna-cdn.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/01/05b_More_Info.jpg" border="0" alt="orbit downloader review" width="580" height="260" />

Most of the information is related to the data about that software on class="vt-p" href="http://www.recipester.org">Recipester. This is the site that dubbed itself as “Wiki Answers for all things about (your favorite) software“. The site is created by the maker of Orbit Downloader as a software database to support Orbit Downloader’s “Software Updater” feature.

Orbit Downloader could also be set to remind users about the availability of software updates on a regular basis. You can set how often you want to be reminded from the “Preferences – Software Updates” menu.

When you click on the update notification, you will be brought to the software update list on Recipester.

style="text-align: center;"> class="aligncenter" src="http://main.makeuseoflimited.netdna-cdn.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/01/02a_Update_List.jpg" border="0" alt="orbit downloader review" width="580" height="210" />

Even though Recipester has promised that our data is not accessible by anybody but us, it’s advisable to check the “make the list of your programs private” box just to make sure. The box is located at the top right area of the software update list.

style="text-align: center;"> class="aligncenter" src="http://main.makeuseoflimited.netdna-cdn.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/01/02b_Make_List_Private.jpg" border="0" alt="orbit downloader review" width="580" height="200" />

Clicking the download button of any item on the list will bring you to the software’s download page. Along with it you will see two small information links above: Reviews and Tutorials.

style="text-align: center;"> class="aligncenter" src="http://main.makeuseoflimited.netdna-cdn.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/01/03c_Recipester_-_Download.jpg" border="0" alt="what is orbit downloader" width="580" height="260" />

Let’s Learn More

It turns out that Recipester is more than a database to support Orbit Downloader. It’s also a source of information on software. For example, clicking “Tutorials “on the download page will bring you to the software’s tutorial page. You can see several available tutorials related to that software.

style="text-align: center;"> class="aligncenter" src="http://main.makeuseoflimited.netdna-cdn.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/01/04a_Recipester_Tutorials.jpg" border="0" alt="what is orbit downloader" width="580" height="200" />

The other link that you can follow from the download page is the “Reviews” link.

style="text-align: center;"> class="aligncenter" src="http://main.makeuseoflimited.netdna-cdn.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/01/04b_Recipester_-_Review.jpg" border="0" alt="what is orbit downloader" width="580" height="260" />

Basically, Recipester wants to be a one stop place for people who want to know everything about their software. All that users need to do is search for available information, or ask. Your questions will be answered by one of their 200-something experts.

style="text-align: center;"> class="aligncenter" src="http://main.makeuseoflimited.netdna-cdn.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/01/01a_Recipester_Main.jpg" border="0" alt="01a_Recipester_Main.jpg" width="580" height="280" />

Even though there are already many tutorials and Q&As in their database, I felt that Recipester is far from complete. Maybe it’s because the site is still in the early stages and still in the process of building their database.

style="text-align: center;"> class="aligncenter" src="http://main.makeuseoflimited.netdna-cdn.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/01/01f-First-Page-Guide-Activities.jpg" border="0" alt="orbit downloader" width="580" height="290" />

In general, I think that the combination of Orbit Downloader and Recipester provides Windows users with a convenient way to keep their software updated. But we still have to wait and see how everything will turn out in the future.

What do you think about this “Software Updater” feature? Do you know other alternatives?  If so, please share using the comments below. Meanwhile, if you have any technology-related questions of your own, why not try  class="vt-p" href="http://www.makeuseof.com/answers/">MakeUseOf Answers? Our technology-savvy authors and readers are ready and able. />
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class="align-left" style="border: 0px none; margin-left: 20px; margin-top: 5px; float: right;" src="http://main.makeuseoflimited.netdna-cdn.com/wp-content/uploads/2010/12/msnlogo.jpg" alt="msn gaming zone" width="220" height="116" />So you purchased a new Windows computer and it came installed with a link on the desktop or in the Accessories & Games folder. This tends to irritate a lot of users that really don’t appreciate unwanted software or weblinks getting pre-installed on their computer.

It is especially irritating to new computer users. You can delete the folder in Program Files, or delete the desktop shortcuts, but no matter what, it will always come back. Many people assume you can’t uninstall the MSN Gaming Zone links and just decide to leave well enough alone.

In Windows 7, as you did in Windows XP, you still get the games folder and a link to MSN Gaming Zone, but these days more people know how to remove those if you really want to. If you don’t know, I’ll show you how. However, beyond removing the games, I’m actually going to go over some of the useful features of MSN Gaming Zone and try to change your mind about removing those links.

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How MSN Games Are Installed On Your Computer

All of the games pre-installed within the “Games” folder are MSN Games and each provide some link to Microsoft’s online Games. Some of these only provide links to MSN Gaming Zone within the Help menu, but the Internet Games directly connect to the Zone. Of course there’s also a direct link entitled “More Games from Microsoft” buried between the games.

style="text-align: center;"> class="aligncenter size-full wp-image-62257" style="border: 1px solid black;" src="http://main.makeuseoflimited.netdna-cdn.com/wp-content/uploads/2010/12/msn.jpg" alt="msn gaming zone" width="382" height="454" />

If you are dead set against having these Microsoft Games on your computer, it is possible to get rid of them even though they don’t show up under “Uninstall Programs” in the Control Panel.  For older operating systems, look under “Add/Remove Windows Components“, or in Windows 7 you can just click on “Turn Windows features on or off“.

style="text-align: center;"> class="aligncenter size-full wp-image-62258" style="border: 1px solid black;" src="http://main.makeuseoflimited.netdna-cdn.com/wp-content/uploads/2010/12/msn1.jpg" alt="gaming zone msn" width="575" height="484" />

As you can see, Games is right at the top of the list. Just deselect that box and those Games will disappear. However, before you do that, just hear me out. I know everyone is supposed to hate the big and nasty Microsoft beast, but I’m going to show you a few cool things about the MSN Gaming Zone that may make you change your mind and actually start playing around with some of these games.

6 Cool Features Of The MSN Gaming Zone

Within your Games folder go ahead and click on that “More Games” link. It’s okay, I won’t tell anyone – it’ll be our little secret. Once you connect to the MSN Game Zone, click on “More Free Games“.

style="text-align: center;"> class="aligncenter" src="http://main.makeuseoflimited.netdna-cdn.com/wp-content/uploads/2010/12/msn3.jpg" alt="gaming zone msn" width="555" height="473" />

Now you’re inside the new and improved MSN Gaming Zone. The appearance of the site has changed significantly from the old classic version, but everything is still here. Let me show you around.

Win Cash & Prizes

It’s true, you can enter the Sweepstakes every day and earn some real world prizes. I’m not saying it’s easy to win, but it is possible and some of the prizes are pretty cool.

style="text-align: center;"> class="aligncenter" src="http://main.makeuseoflimited.netdna-cdn.com/wp-content/uploads/2010/12/msn4.jpg" alt="" width="510" height="341" />

This area is known as the “Prize Corner,” where Microsoft gives away about $10,000 a month in total cash and prizes to winners. You don’t really have to do a whole lot to win, just remember to log in and spin the wheel to enter daily.

style="text-align: center;"> class="aligncenter size-full wp-image-62274" style="border: 1px solid black;" src="http://main.makeuseoflimited.netdna-cdn.com/wp-content/uploads/2010/12/msn5.jpg" alt="gaming zone msn" width="575" height="434" />

Winning here means that you won an entry. The more often you enter, the greater your chances are to win a prize, it’s as simple as that.

Compete In MSN Messenger

With some games, you can even integrate them with your Messenger chat and play games with friends while you’re chatting. This is actually a lot of fun, especially with things like card games or puzzles. If you can’t visit someone in person to play games and chat, this really is the next best thing. Just start at the class="vt-p" href="http://zone.msn.com/en/root/gamebrowser.htm?playmode=1&genre=0#5_0_1_0_0_0_25&intgid=cp_fun_messenger">listing page and choose the game.

style="text-align: center;"> class="aligncenter size-full wp-image-62276" style="border: 1px solid black;" src="http://main.makeuseoflimited.netdna-cdn.com/wp-content/uploads/2010/12/msn6.jpg" alt="msn game zone" width="575" height="426" />

Click Start Game and you can play the game with one of your Live Messenger contacts.

Other Cool Features

Aside from playing the thousands of free games that you’ll find throughout the MSN Gaming Zone, there are also a few other features that will get you addicted to this game site in no time. Click on the Trophy icon, and you’ll see the Leaderboards.

style="text-align: center;"> class="aligncenter size-full wp-image-62277" style="border: 1px solid black;" src="http://main.makeuseoflimited.netdna-cdn.com/wp-content/uploads/2010/12/msn7.jpg" alt="msn game zone" width="559" height="473" />

While it’ll take a bit of work (or play) to get to the top of the overall MSN leaderboard, once you have a few friends playing the same games, you’ll be able to see their scores and try to beat them! If you connect to the Gaming Zone through your Facebook account, the Zone displays your friend’s status updates right on the main page.

style="text-align: center;"> class="aligncenter" src="http://main.makeuseoflimited.netdna-cdn.com/wp-content/uploads/2010/12/msn8.jpg" alt="msn game zone" width="579" height="439" />

If you scroll about halfway down the main page, you’ll see some quick-links to the major categories of games. One of the best links if you always like access to the latest, recently released online games is “The Latest.” Here, you’ll discover the newest games available that you can play right away and share with your friends.

style="text-align: center;"> class="aligncenter" src="http://main.makeuseoflimited.netdna-cdn.com/wp-content/uploads/2010/12/msn9.jpg" alt="msn gaming zone" width="575" height="240" />

Now, I’m not saying that the MSN Gaming Zone is better than any other online game site, but I am saying that it really doesn’t get its due. The new site is well integrated with Facebook and Live Messenger, and you’ll find real cash prizes and some of the coolest free games – this site really deserves a second look.

Do you play the MSN Gaming Zone, or do you have other online game sites that you like better? Share your opinion in the comments section below. />
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class="align-left" style="border: 0px none; margin-left: 20px; margin-top: 5px; float: right;" src="http://main.makeuseoflimited.netdna-cdn.com/wp-content/uploads/2010/11/Ticket.jpg" alt="fan films" width="250" height="167" />Thanks to mediums like YouTube and other free video hosting sites like Daily Motion and Vimeo, it’s easy to showcase a fan film. The making of a fan film is another story however. A casual YouTube search will reveal a lot which border on the ridiculous and some which go over even that edge.

But for every dark side, there’s the good one as well. When you take a look at few of the better ones below, you can fault them only for not having the length of a full feature, the sci-fi slickness, or the starry razzmatazz.

If you go in with low expectations, you will be pleasantly surprised by the passion and the creativity. Heck, scratch that. Go in with high ones, you will be surprised anyway.

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class="vt-p" href="http://www.thehuntforgollum.com/">The Hunt for Gollum

classid="clsid:d27cdb6e-ae6d-11cf-96b8-444553540000" width="580" height="430" codebase="http://download.macromedia.com/pub/shockwave/cabs/flash/swflash.cab#version=6,0,40,0"> name="allowFullScreen" value="true" /> name="allowscriptaccess" value="always" /> name="src" value="http://www.youtube.com/v/9H09xnhlCQU?fs=1&hl=en_US&rel=0" /> name="allowfullscreen" value="true" /> type="application/x-shockwave-flash" width="580" height="430" src="http://www.youtube.com/v/9H09xnhlCQU?fs=1&hl=en_US&rel=0" allowscriptaccess="always" allowfullscreen="true">

The original Lord of The Rings trilogy’s production costs and grosses could have paid off the debt of a couple of nations. Then we come to this ‘prequel’ of LOTR that cost probably what it took to make Gandalf’s beard in the original. At $5,000, the ode to LOTR is unofficial and unauthorized. But with 5.5 million views on YouTube, you can’t argue with the appeal of this 40 minute long fan film shot in high definition.

Check out the trailers and the film’s website. You will be fooled into thinking of this as a major Hollywood release.

class="vt-p" href="http://www.renacimientofilm.com/">Star Wars

classid="clsid:d27cdb6e-ae6d-11cf-96b8-444553540000" width="580" height="430" codebase="http://download.macromedia.com/pub/shockwave/cabs/flash/swflash.cab#version=6,0,40,0"> name="allowFullScreen" value="true" /> name="allowscriptaccess" value="always" /> name="src" value="http://www.youtube.com/v/lBUN8wwJurM?fs=1&hl=en_US&rel=0" /> name="allowfullscreen" value="true" /> type="application/x-shockwave-flash" width="580" height="430" src="http://www.youtube.com/v/lBUN8wwJurM?fs=1&hl=en_US&rel=0" allowscriptaccess="always" allowfullscreen="true">

Picking the best Star Wars fan film from the hundreds that dot the Star Wars galaxy is best left to George Lucas himself. Lucas Films has an official class="vt-p" href="http://www.atom.com/channel/channel_star_wars">Star Wars Fan Movie Challenge where they hand out awards to the best fan film that goes over to the Star Wars side. So, to be on the safe side I have just picked one from the hat. You can check out the other really good ones under the link on the line above. This one got the Audience Choice Award this year. But the one which is usually considered the best Star Wars fan film is class="vt-p" href="http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=yxLB1hGKnsA&feature=player_embedded">Troops.

class="vt-p" href="http://www.hiddenfrontier.com/">Star Trek Hidden Frontier

classid="clsid:d27cdb6e-ae6d-11cf-96b8-444553540000" width="580" height="460" codebase="http://download.macromedia.com/pub/shockwave/cabs/flash/swflash.cab#version=6,0,40,0"> name="allowFullScreen" value="true" /> name="allowscriptaccess" value="always" /> name="src" value="http://www.youtube.com/v/TweghlqBxVY?fs=1&hl=en_US&rel=0" /> name="allowfullscreen" value="true" /> type="application/x-shockwave-flash" width="580" height="460" src="http://www.youtube.com/v/TweghlqBxVY?fs=1&hl=en_US&rel=0" allowscriptaccess="always" allowfullscreen="true">

If Star Wars is there then the fans of Star Trek will not be far behind. The number of Star Trek fan shot films (88) are not as numerous as Star Wars (317) but unlike it, many of them are made in the format of episodes just like the original series. So, let’s start with the one that almost got its own cult status in the fan film genre. The videos on the main site seem to be down for now, so head over to class="vt-p" href="http://vimeo.com/hiddenfrontier">Vimeo to catch the 50 episodes on the crew of USS Excelsior and their deep space adventures. class="vt-p" href="http://">Hidden Frontier also has a channel on YouTube.

The Star Trek Universe expands with another fans series, class="vt-p" href="http://www.startreknewvoyages.com/">Star Trek: Phase II. The creators aim to release one episode every year and class="vt-p" href="http://www.startreknewvoyages.com/episodes.html">five episodes have been uploaded so far. You can choose to watch them online or download them to your computer.

class="vt-p" href="http://www.collorastudios.com/projects/bde/bdemain.htm">Batman Dead End

classid="clsid:d27cdb6e-ae6d-11cf-96b8-444553540000" width="580" height="460" codebase="http://download.macromedia.com/pub/shockwave/cabs/flash/swflash.cab#version=6,0,40,0"> name="allowFullScreen" value="true" /> name="allowscriptaccess" value="always" /> name="src" value="http://www.youtube.com/v/Hjp0I_okX0w?fs=1&hl=en_US&rel=0" /> name="allowfullscreen" value="true" /> type="application/x-shockwave-flash" width="580" height="460" src="http://www.youtube.com/v/Hjp0I_okX0w?fs=1&hl=en_US&rel=0" allowscriptaccess="always" allowfullscreen="true">

For interest value I would go with Batman Dead End. How would The Caped Crusader fare against the Joker, Predator, and the Alien? It would take two Hollywood studios lots of dollars to tell us. But Sandy Collora says it with $30,000 and in eight minutes. Batman is a bit stocky, but the dark alley and hoarse voice gives the whole fan film the Christopher Nolan treatment. But of course, Nolan’s take came two years down the line to this one.

If you want more of Batman, don’t miss class="vt-p" href="http://www.dailymotion.com/video/xdpig1_city-of-scars_shortfilms">City of Scars (also uploaded on class="vt-p" href="http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Cl9zoeT8pVo&feature=related">YouTube in two parts). It runs for nearly half an hour and is in HD with crisp production values. This short film explores the dark psyche of Batman/Bruce Wayne.

class="vt-p" href="http://timeandagain.t35.com/">Dr. Who – Time and Again

classid="clsid:d27cdb6e-ae6d-11cf-96b8-444553540000" width="580" height="460" codebase="http://download.macromedia.com/pub/shockwave/cabs/flash/swflash.cab#version=6,0,40,0"> name="allowFullScreen" value="true" /> name="allowscriptaccess" value="always" /> name="src" value="http://www.youtube.com/v/eMZzXNJ1K34?fs=1&hl=en_US&rel=0" /> name="allowfullscreen" value="true" /> type="application/x-shockwave-flash" width="580" height="460" src="http://www.youtube.com/v/eMZzXNJ1K34?fs=1&hl=en_US&rel=0" allowscriptaccess="always" allowfullscreen="true">

The British sc-fi series has a huge following around the world and its popularity is assured when you know that the central character of Dr. Who has appeared on stage, TV, film, comics, novels, and everything in between. Fan films are one of the things that falls in between all the regular channels. There are a whopping 145 of them as listed by class="vt-p" href="http://www.fanfilms.net/c/doctorwho">Fanfilms.net. The advantage Dr. Who has over the others is that you don’t need to spend a dime on special effects or detailed getups. It’s difficult to pick out one, but I will go with Time and Again.

Is that all there is to it? You bet not. Here are a few links where you can follow your favorites and keep track of fan productions when they release:

Making your own fan film is the ultimate height to reach for in all of fandom. Do you give fan films a second glance? Tell us about your favorites fan made class="vt-p" href="http://www.makeuseof.com/tags/movies/">movies.

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style="border: 0px none;margin-left:20px;float:right;height:200px" src="http://main.makeuseoflimited.netdna-cdn.com/wp-content/uploads/2010/09/magnify.jpg" alt="riddle games" />If you’re in the mood to give your mind a little exercise, online riddles are a great place to do just that. One of the most popular genre of online riddle games consists of multiple levels, containing clues in the source code, in photos, and just about everywhere you can look.

These games certainly aren’t for the easily frustrated. They are long, difficult, and sometimes one level can take ages to crack. Luckily, there are forums filled with other players happy to give hints when you get stumped like href="http://www.gamershood.com/forum/forum.php">Gamershood and href="http://www.nordinho.net/vbull/">Nordinho.

id="more-53010">

NotPron

href="http://notpron.org/notpron/">NotPron is a challenging riddle game, and according to its creator, its the hardest riddle game on the internet. Each level contains some sort of hint to get you to the next level. Getting to the next level could be achieved by finding the right spot on the picture to click, by changing the text in the URL or by discovering the username and password to get through.

Sometimes you have to turn to resources outside of NotPron including Google or even using an href="http://makeuseof.com/tags/image-editors">image editor. The riddle gets progressively harder, which makes it all the more satisfying with each correct answer. The only way to save your progress is to bookmark the latest level. The creator also recommends keeping a note of the solution to each level.

style="text-align: center;"> class="aligncenter" style="border: 0pt none;" src="http://main.makeuseoflimited.netdna-cdn.com/wp-content/uploads/2010/09/NotPron.jpg" alt="riddle games"/>

OddPawn

href="http://www.oddpawn.com/">OddPawn is a mammoth riddle game, with over 300 levels that will have you scratching your head. In order to play OddPawn, you have to register for a free account, providing a username, password, email address and your country of residence. While OddPawn lets you choose where to start the game, we’d recommend starting with Chapter 1 to ease yourself into the harder levels.

Each level is accompanied by a question you have to answer to move on. The levels are varied, with questions relating to logic and math, and much more. The game is something of a scavenger hunt, looking for clues in the source code, file names, URLs and more. While OddPawn does keep track of your progress, be sure to bookmark the last level you are at so that you can quickly get back to that page. Otherwise you’re going to have to quickly click through the levels you’ve already completed without having to answer them. And don’t clear your cookies, otherwise you will have to solve each level again. It’s also worth mentioning that if you plan to procrastinate at work with this game, some of the levels require your audio to be turned on.

style="text-align: center;"> class="aligncenter" style="border: 0pt none;" src="http://main.makeuseoflimited.netdna-cdn.com/wp-content/uploads/2010/09/OddPawn.jpg" alt="math riddle games"/>

The DaVinci Code

Whether or not you liked the book, the online riddle game, href="http://www.randomhouse.com/doubleday/davinci/main.html">The DaVinci Code that Random House put together for fans will definitely appeal to everyone. Following the hints in each level will leave you feeling like a detective, although if there is one small complaint, deciphering the font they used makes the riddle just that little bit more difficult. For those of you who are old hands at the online riddle genre, The DaVinci Code will be a quick and easy game to pass the afternoon with.

style="text-align: center;"> class="aligncenter" style="border: 0pt none;" src="http://main.makeuseoflimited.netdna-cdn.com/wp-content/uploads/2010/09/DaVinci.jpg" alt="math riddle games"/>

The First Door

href="http://www.thefirstdoor.co.uk/">The First Door doesn’t waste any time starting out with a difficult puzzle. All answers to each level are typed into the URL. Be sure to follow the instructions carefully, and don’t forget that the answers are case sensitive. Unlike other puzzles listed here, you don’t need to look in the source code, you don’t need any other programs, you just need to figure out the answer to each question using logic.

Occasionally you’ll stumble upon easter eggs which will help lead you to the right answer. Once you’ve completed the First Door, you can move onto the href="http://www.thefirstdoor.co.uk/TheSecondDoor/before1.htm">sequel. Once again, don’t forget to bookmark your place in the riddle otherwise you’ll have to start all over again.

style="text-align: center;"> class="aligncenter" style="border: 0pt none;" src="http://main.makeuseoflimited.netdna-cdn.com/wp-content/uploads/2010/09/TheFirstDoor.png" alt="math riddle games"/>

Amnesya

To play href="http://www.amnesya.com/">Amnesya, you will need a photo editor and an href="http://makeuseof.com/tags/audio-editors">audio editor, but they do suggest good free apps that we have reviewed here on MakeUseOf like href="http://www.makeuseof.com/tag/3-audacity-tips-enhance-recorded-interview/">Audacity and href="http://www.makeuseof.com/tag/5-websites-learn-gimp-photo-editing/">Gimp and href="http://www.makeuseof.com/tag/6-cool-irfanview-plugins-enhance-simple-image-editor/">IrfanView.

Like the other riddles listed here, you have to change the URL to get to the next level. Clues are hidden in the images, in the source code, and in a bunch of other places. Luckily there’s a very straightforward tutorial that will walk you through all the different places you can look for clues. Be sure to bookmark your spot in the game to come back to it.

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Einstein’s Riddle

href="http://www.kongregate.com/games/sheldonx/einsteins-riddle">Einstein’s Riddle is a very different kind of riddle game. There’s only one level, but don’t be fooled by that, it’s definitely a headscratcher. You are given a list of facts about 5 men, and using logic and deduction, you can answer the one and only question in the riddle.

style="text-align: center;"> class="aligncenter" style="border: 0pt none;" src="http://main.makeuseoflimited.netdna-cdn.com/wp-content/uploads/2010/09/Einstein.png" alt="riddle games"/>

If you like riddle games, you’ll probably also want to give these href="http://www.makeuseof.com/tag/ultimate-list-escape-room-games/">Escape The Room games a try.

What are your favourite online riddles? Let us know in the comments.

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If you’ve been running your Windows computer for a while, it probably needs some registry fixes.  The registry is a part of Windows that helps your system to run and errors can creep into it over time.  While it may not always be essential to clean your registry, it is often a good idea.  Particularly if you are getting strange errors that claim Windows can’t find a file.  Keeping your registry clean can prevent those errors and speed up your system.

The Windows Registry Defined

The Windows registry is a core part of your computer.  It is a database that keeps track of all the pieces of your computer, including all the programs you have installed.  Windows uses the registry to find files it needs to run your software or communicate with your hardware.  Problems in the registry can affect your entire system.

Registry entries are called keys.  Each program you install will add multiple keys to your registry.  The main keys will tell Windows how to find the program. Other keys will give details on how to use the files.  The registry was designed to be arranged in a hierarchy, with all the entries for a single program grouped under the main keys.  But, in typical computer developer fashion some programs put entries in other areas, often for shared files.  This can make it hard to determine what keys belong to what programs.

Don’t Try This At Home!

Because the registry is a vital piece of Windows, it can be dangerous to edit it if you are not absolutely, certain what you are doing.  If you mistakenly edit a key that controls some piece of Windows itself, it is possible to disable your computer.  Fixing a computer that won’t boot up is far more difficult than fixing one with a few minor errors in the registry.

Fixing the registry is a matter of going through the entries looking for problems and setting them right.  Because of the size and nature of the registry and the information it stores, this isn’t a task that can be done manually.  Even if you understand every registry key, checking each one on a single computer would take a person several hours.  That’s why registry cleaners were developed.

Registry Cleaners to the Rescue

Registry cleaners are programs that are specifically designed to check through the keys in a registry looking for problems.  These cleaners compare what is on your hard drive to the data in the registry.  They will find and fix minor errors, like keys that point to programs that no longer exist, and major errors, like the ones that prevent your programs from running.  If you are getting registry errors, running a cleaner will usually solve it.  However, you should not reserve cleaning for when your computer breaks!

Cleaning your registry regularly can increase the speed of your system and improve the performance of many programs.  So, if you get a registry cleaner, plan on using it on a regular basis to keep your system clean.

Most registry cleaners offer a trial scan that shows you the errors the cleaner finds in your system.  Try the software before you purchase it.  Look for solid guarantees backed by a good reputation.  Registry fixes don’t have to be difficult if you have the right software for the job.

Making sure your computer has the registry fixes it needs will keep your system working fast and prevent errors.  Every Windows computer has errors in the registry, but some of those errors can slow your system down and a few will break the software you need.  Even if you don’t see any obvious signs of problems, cleaning the registry can benefit your computer by preventing future errors.  Keeping your registry clean and error-free will speed up your computer and make Windows work at its best.

So, What’s a Registry?

The registry is a complicated database that works as the information desk for Windows.  When you run a program on your computer, Windows checks with the registry to find out what files are needed for the program and how to use them.  Every program has at least one entry in the registry, including Windows itself.  Whenever Windows does anything at all, the action starts in the registry.  The registry is a crucial part of Windows.

Clean the Registry Regularly or When You See an Error

Because the registry is so crucial, there is a certain amount of redundancy built into it.  Windows can recover from very minor mistakes in the registry because most information can be found in more than one spot.  However, too many mistakes will overwhelm the ability of Windows to work around them.  This is why it is important to regularly clean the registry even when you are not seeing obvious problems.

The most common error you will see that indicates a registry fix is needed is a “file not found” error involving some strange file that ends with .dll.  The files are dynamic link libraries, chunks of code used by lots of programs. Windows must have the right information about them in order to use them.  When you get this sort of error, it generally means that there is a mistake in the registry entry for either that file, or the program that needs to use that file.  In most cases, cleaning the registry fixes the problem.

How to Clean Your Registry

Because the registry is large and complex, cleaning it manually isn’t really possible.  It would take a highly trained expert many hours, if not days, to completely clean a registry alone.  Instead, you will want to use a registry cleaner for your registry fixes.  Registry cleaners are programs designed to compare the reality of your hard drive with the information in the registry and fix any discrepancies.  A good registry cleaner will repair your registry in a matter of minutes, and should be run regularly to keep your system in top health.

Finding A Good Registry Cleaner

Finding a registry cleaner is not difficult.  Look for a legitimate company that has been around for a while.  Check that the company has a good record with a consumer protection agency, like the Better Business Bureau.  Run the free trial scan that is provided to see what errors the cleaner will find.  Do your research and you’ll get a good product that will help your computer last longer and run faster.

Registry fixes are a fact of life for Windows computers.  The registry will gather errors during normal usage. Cleaning the registry on a regular basis is one of the maintenance tasks needed to keep a Windows computer in top condition.  If you’ve never cleaned the registry on your Windows computer, the odds are good that you will find some errors in the registry even if the computer has no symptoms.  Getting rid of those registry errors will help your computer run better and prevent future errors from stopping your system cold.

Introduction to the Windows Registry

The registry is a database used by Windows to track all the information about what is installed on your computer.  All the programs and hardware that are part of your system have entries in the registry.  Windows uses this information whenever you run a program to find all the files needed and how to use them.  In a way, the registry is the information booth of Windows.  Windows consults the registry constantly, and it is a vital part of your system.

Clean Regularly to Prevent Serious Problems

Because the registry is a large system that is updated frequently, it is easy for mistakes to creep into registry entries.  Windows is capable of working around some registry errors, but the more mistakes there are in the registry, the less likely it is for Windows to be able to run your programs correctly.  Eventually, a registry problem is likely to stop you from running a program.  Some of those cases could have been prevented by regular registry fixes.

How to Clean Your Registry

Since the registry is a large database written partially in computer code, it is nearly impossible for a human to manually find and fix every error in it.  Instead, use software designed to hunt down and repair registry mistakes.  Registry cleaners are available across the Internet, and cleaning your registry is just a matter of running a good one and letting it do the job.

Finding a Registry Cleaner

Not all registry cleaners are created equal.  Most of them will do a passable job, finding the obvious problems and fixing them.  However, do a little research before you pick a cleaner.  You need to be sure the company that created the cleaner has a good reputation and keeps their word.  

Check out the company name with a consumer protection agency to make sure they are not installing something nasty on your computer.  If they have a solid reputation, check to see if they have a guarantee.  Most registry cleaners offer a free scan that will tell you the problems they find without actually fixing them.  Run the scan to see what errors they come up with.  Virtually every registry has errors if you’ve used your computer for any amount of time, so look at the types of errors as well as the quantity.  Once you have a good registry cleaner, remember to run it regularly, not just if you see registry errors.  Regularly registry fixes will speed up your computer and keep your system in better overall health.

Make Your PC Run Fast Again By Scheduling A Regular Tune Up:

Your computer is just like a fine race car! Both must be expertly maintained to run at their optimum speed and performance levels. Unlike a formula 1 racer however, your PC is relatively easy to fine-tune, and we will guide you through the process with simple step-by-step instructions.

Initial tune-up

After getting all the programs setup on your PC the way you want, there are a few tasks that will help you get the most out of your system. The following maintenance tasks should be performed initially and will form the basis of a solid tune-up program for your PC:

1. Install and Update your Antivirus & Anti Spyware software:

The last thing you need is a computer virus ruining your day by infecting your computer and either destroying valuable data, or spreading your personal information all over the internet! We cannot stress enough the importance of making sure you have a solid and reliable Anti-Virus program installed on your computer.

Spyware and Adware is almost an even bigger problem these days than Computer Viruses! If you have ever downloaded anything online, music, books, files, etc…or if you have ever installed downloaded programs on your computer, chances are you have multiple spyware infections.

Pop-up windows and windows error messages are a prime indicator of Spyware and Adware infections on your computer.

Spyware is a hidden software program created to steal your personal information, and report back to their creators with anything from your online browsing habits and patterns, to your stored credit card numbers! identity theft is a growing problem, propagated in part by Spyware!

2. Update your software and drivers

Make sure your computer has the latest video, hardware and software drivers it needs to run at optimum speed and efficiency. We recommend that Microsoft Windows Update be used on a consistent basis. Microsoft and other hardware and software manufacturers will regularly post updated drivers and fixes for their products. Most vendors use the Windows Update tool to distribute their updates.

The Windows Update tool can be accessed on your computer by clicking Start, right-click My Computer, and select Properties.

Click the Automatic Updates tab, and select Keep my computer up to date.

Keeping Windows updated can solve many errors you may experience.

3. Defragment your hard drive

Defragmenting your hard drive is an easy task that will improve your system’s speed and performance (especially noticeable with larger programs).

As you install and uninstall different software programs, data becomes scattered across your hard drive in various areas. This results in your computer taking a longer amount of time to find data it needs, which makes your system run slower. This holds true even after installing a new program on your computer.

Starting Disk Defragmenter

Using Disk Defragmenter is easy and once started will work without the need to monitor the process. Depending on the size of your hard drive and the amount of fragmented files defragmentation of your files can take up to several hours to complete. Follow the procedures below to start defragmenting your hard drive.

* 1. Shut Down all programs that are running. including background programs and screensavers.
* 2. Click Start, All Programs, Accessories, then System Tools.
* 3. Click Disk Defragmenter. Follow the onscreen instructions. If Disk Defragmenter starts itself over and over, then a hidden background program is still accessing the hard drive. Restart the computer in Safe mode and try again.

4. Create a Backup Or Restore Point Regularly On Your Computer

A Virus, Spyware or other bug could easily wipe out your data without chance of recovery! Make sure you are regularly backing up any data you don’t want to lose (burning it to disk is an easy and cost effective way of backing up important data).

Microsoft offers a Data Backup to automate the process, A virus or software bug could wipe out data without any chance of recovery. Devise a strategy for backing up your files now. Any important data that you do not want to lose should be backed up regularly. This can be done in any of a number of ways. Simply write the files to a floppy diskette, USB drive, or a CD-R. You might also consider using RecordNow!’s System Backup or Microsoft’s Data Backup to automate the backup process.

5. Clean Your Computer Registry Regularly

If you’re running any version of Windows on your computer, then you have a Windows registry. This Windows Registry is where all the information about your computer is stored. The registry includes installation data about the software you run and all of your computer’s preferences, settings, and registry keys. Everything about your computer is essentially stored in your windows registry.

Over time, as you install new programs, delete others, and use your computer, the Windows Registry grows. Sometimes you will get errors when you start your computer. In extreme instances you will experience computer freeze-ups and possibly even system crashes. Your computer can start running ‘slower’ as well, which makes for annoying and time consuming ‘hang’ times, where you essentially stare at your monitor in a trance, waiting for control of your mouse cursor to be restored to you once again!

Fortunately, there is an easy solution to Registry build-up. You need to run a registry cleaner tool on a regular basis (depending on computer usage). This software will scan your Registry to find the unnecessary data and delete it…the end result should be a computer that runs as fast as the day you brought it home!

RECOMMENDED: Put Your Computer Tune Up Schedule On Auto Pilot by downloading and running our recommended Free PC Optimizer: RegCure.

Registry cleaner is a useful and best effective way to remove the registry errors that make the PC slower and prone to frequent errors. Therefore, these registry cleaners are really helpful to optimize your computer performance and protect your PC from the unwanted malware programs.

Windows registry – an integral part of the Windows operating system

Windows registry is used by the operating system to store vital information about the hardware and software configurations, system setting, network settings and display properties of the PC. Before the Windows 95 version, this was done through the INI files that were randomly stored on the hard disk. Registry is a better way of storing these information as the operating system could easily retrieve the information from the registry that was impossible with the INI files.

Registry errors – how does it happen?

All the entries that are stored in the registry are not required by the system to run smoothly. The outdated entries that are no longer in use, embedded keys that are generated by the malware programs, empty spaces within the registry, traces of incomplete installation – all these make the registry clogged and that result in slower performance of the system. A registry cleaner can remove these errors to ensure faster computing speed.

You can always get a free registry fix download but you have to make sure that the software is compatible with the version of Windows you are using. As each version of Windows follow different methods to maintain the details within the registry, the registry cleaners must be compatible with the Windows operating system. So if you are using Windows XP operating system make sure you get a registry cleaner made for XP.

Once you have installed the free registry fix software to your computer scan the registry with it. The registry cleaner will detect all the unnecessary and wrong entries in the registry and removes them without modifying the correct entries in the registry and thereby you get cleaner registries for better and faster computing. With the advanced registry cleaning tools you can keep a back up the existing registry and schedule the scanning process.

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If you use the Internet regularly, the chances are that you will definitely get infected with adware and spyware. Here are some tips to keep your computer safe from adware and spyware:

Stay away from adult sites and sites related to warez, cracked software, etc.: Most adware and spyware programs spread through these sites. They use browser exploits or ActiveX to install adware and spyware programs.

Use a secure browser: Adware and spyware programs (and also many trojans and virus programs) often make use of browser vulnerabilities to infect and spread. If you use a secure browser, you can stay safe. Use Mozilla Firefox or Opera or Google’s chrome or Apple Safari instead of the default Internet explorer.

Be careful when using torrents, and p2p software: Malware often spread through peer-to-peer networks. Whenever you download any file using torrents or other p2p networks like LimeWire or Ares Galaxy, scan the file throughly using a virus scanner and open the file only after you know it is safe.

Never open email attachments with scanning them using a virus scanner. Malicious programs often spread through email.

Never click on banner advertisements which say “Errors detected on your computer”, “Your computer has been infected with spyware”, etc. These will redirect you to the sites of rogue spyware removal tools. These software report false positives and force you to buy their “full version”.

Install an anti-virus scanner with realtime protection. Also install a firewall and spyware scanner for optimum protection. We recommend AVG and Avira Antivir (both have free versions) and SpywareTerminator (a free spyware removal tool).