Pssst...Wanna know a Secret??? | Technology

This week I'll let you in on a great way to get expert computer training...and much of it is FREE!  But first, here's the latest news...

In The News

The first iPad challengers are here

• A big consumer electronics show is going on in Berlin.  Several companies are rolling out new tablets that will be in the U.S. soon.  Check them out here...  Electronics Show

Malware, Worms Spreading Through USB Devices, Report Finds

• Security firm Panda Security's anti-malware laboratory PandaLabs has discovered that in 2010, 25 percent of new worms have been specifically designed to spread through USB storage devices connected to computers.  Click here for more..USB Malware

The Best Anti-Virus Software for 2011

• Read this report from PC Magazine… http://www.pcmag.com/article2/0,2817,2368554,00.asp

10 Expert Tips For Microsoft Word 2010...and more

• Find them here...Microsoft Word Tips

In The Classroom

Want some great computer training for free?  Some of the very best values around can be found at your local libraries and adult/continuing education programs at your local schools. 

For a listing of the library classes available, please click on this link...Library Computer Classes, or visit your local school district website for more information on their programs.  Many of these classes are free or very low cost to you.

I am personally involved with the programs at the Pittsford and Webster libraries and the Gates-Chili Continuing Education program and can say they are excellent programs.  (For the Gates-Chili classes, click here Gates Chili Fall 2010 program.  The computer classes start on page 21.)

For the novice computer user, don't be concerned that you will be surrounded by a bunch of know-it-all geeks in these classes.  While a limited number of "advanced" computer courses are available, the majority of the classes are targeted to new or limited experience users.

Another point worth mentioning is that, for the most part, the instructors are teaching these classes because they want to help you learn about computers.  Compensation received, if any, is very modest when compared to corporate or professional training classes.  Are you getting the picture?  In some cases, the same instructor who makes $500/day or more teaching professionally is teaching you for free...sounds like a pretty good value to me!     

I'm sure you're wondering by now...if this person can make $500/day why is he teaching me for free?  I can't speak for others but from my perspective it comes down to two basic points:

• The $500/day gigs are not every day...the poor economy has impacted everyone.
• And, I truly enjoy teaching someone who is there because they want to learn and not because their boss said they had to attend some training class!

So I encourage you to take advantage of these opportunities to learn more about computers and technology...I know you'll be glad you did.

In The Mailroom

A reader from Williamson asks "Last week you said I should be using Windows 7.  Between my two sons and myself we have three computers in my house.  Even the cheapest versions of Windows 7 are still very expensive for me so what should I do"?  You're absolutely right...it's not cheap for three copies of Windows 7.  But you may be able to get some pretty good discounts.  First, Microsoft has announced they will be bringing back the Family Pack on October 3; that will get you three copies of Windows 7 for $149.99.  Click here for more details... http://www.pcmag.com/article2/0,2817,2368598,00.asp.  I would also check to see if your sons can get discounts as students.  Several websites offer significant savings to students and educators.  I discussed this in a previous post, click the following link and read the last "In The Newsroom" item... http://irondequoit.whec.com/content/computers-101.  Hope this helps.

That’s all for this week.  Please remember I welcome your questions, comments or suggestions for future topics.  I will provide you with a prompt reply and possibly include it in this blog.  Simply e-mail them to joesblog@thecetagroup.com.

Happy computing!