Virtualization is a great way for businesses to save money and expand computing power.

Special virtualization software allows one physical computer to run multiple virtual computers, each using its own, and possibly different, operating system.  Although all data and applications are held on one machine, virtualization software isolates each system from the others.  Shared hardware resources are dynamically allocated to each virtual machine based on need.

One client moved the files and functions of five old servers to one new server.  Five virtual machines now share the processor, RAM, hard disk, and network controller of one physical machine. 

*The company did not have to go through the ordeal of migrating to a new server. The software that might not have worked with a newer operating system could still be used.  

*The amount of RAM and CPU capacity was increased as if they had purchased new machines.

*Additional benefits are now only one server draws power and just one warranty is needed, reducing energy and support costs significantly.

In addition to streamlining server management and cutting costs, virtualization reduces space requirements.

  Take a break and join us for lunch...

           and learn something new!  

       November 15: Power Point with Panache

*Start with basics, enhance with formatting

*Themes and Styles

*Animation vs. transitions 

February 21, 2012: Write Ways with Word

   Flyer      Registration Form  

Take a guess at what these texting abbreviations mean.  

BTW      GHA       OMMR       TTYL             

Answers at bottom of the page.

Computer Privacy Rights?

The Fourth Amendment to the Constitution protects against unreasonable search and seizure, but does it protect your computer privacy? When can law enforcement or employers access phones and computers if they suspect wrongdoing?

To get the lowdown, visit http://www.eff.org/wp/know-your-rights.  The site features the "Know Your Rights Whitepaper" authored by The Electronic Frontier Foundation, a watchdog organization.

Here are some highlights:

1.  Police may search your computer, cell phone, or another device if:

·You give them permission or they have a warrant that specifically references the device to be searched; or

·They have probable cause to believe there is incriminating evidence on the computer under immediate threat of destruction.  (Note: This applies even if another person is the subject of an investigation and evidence related to that person's activities may be on your equipment.)

2.  Another person can give consent for a search of your property if police believe this person has control over the item.

3.  You need not help police with a search, but you should not interfere physically or try to destroy evidence.

4.  Personal computers, phones, and portable devices can be searched and taken without a warrant at border crossings. (Note: International airports may be considered borders though far from an actual border.)

5.  Work computers shared with co-workers have fewer guarantees of privacy than ones used by individuals.

6.  Employers may grant permission for searches without warrants and may search a work computer or office "as long as the search is for a non-investigative, work-related matter."

It is best to consult an attorney before speaking to law enforcement officials if you have any doubts about sharing information. Anything you say can be used against you.

Power Point TIP:  

A good way to add interest to a presentation is drawing, highlighting, or writing on a slide while you're speaking.

PowerPoint offers several marking tools that are easy to access and use:

1.  Right click with the slide on the screen; and

2.  Select Ballpoint Pen, Felt Tip Pen, or Highlighter from the Pointer Options list.

Ink color may be changed to contrast with the background.

Once marks are made, an eraser tool becomes available to either remove small portions or clear all recent additions.

More Similarities between Dogs and Computers:

     Computers: hit control-alt-delete     

 Way to mess with their heads:  

     Dogs: peanut butter on roof of their mouth  

     Computers: peanut butter in the CD-ROM drive  

 Widely ignored government mandate:

     Dogs: leash law

     Computers: Communications Decency Act