Logging into a Vista PC on a domain as a local user when you don't know the computer name

If you're logging into a computer that's on a domain and you go to "Switch User", it will try to log you in as a domain user.  So, if you want to log in as a local user, you have to specify that.


However, there's no "Log on to" drop-down box anymore, so you have to type the computer name followed by a backslash in front of the username.


Okay, but what if you don't know the computer name?


Aha!  There's a shortcut.  Instead of the computer name, use a period (.).  That's right, a dot.  A dot is shorthand for "where I am now" in UNC paths, DOS and UNIX/Linux.  So, you type the username like this:


.\username


Voila!

AllMyApps

I just started using another site that allows you to install multiple applications at once, similar to http://ninite.com/.  This one is called AllMyApps.


The main differences between Ninite and AllMyApps is that AllMyApps lets you install only 4 or 5 applications without registering and it has a much broader selection of applications to install than Ninite.


For instance, Ninite doesn't install LogMeIn, so I always have to install that separately.  But not with AllMyApps.


I haven't tested the AllMyApps installer process yet, so I can't vouch for it at this time.


http://www.allmyapps.com/

Windows 7 Keyboard Shortcuts

Keyboard shortcuts are great time savers.  Knowing a few useful ones can help you get more done in less time and feel more in control of your computer.


Windows 7 has added some new keyboard shortcuts that are worth learning.  Here are a few of my favorites:

• Windows + Shift + Left/Right arrow = Move active window to left/right monitor
• Windows + Left/Right = Snap active window to left/right of screen
• Shift + Click icon on taskbar = Open a new instance
• Middle-click icon on taskbar = Open a new instance
• Ctrl + Shift + Click icon on taskbar = Open a new instance with Administrator privileges

Microsoft has a comprehensive list of all of the Windows 7 keyboard shortcuts at the following address:


http://windows.microsoft.com/en-US/Windows7/Keyboard-shortcuts

Windows XP System Restore from Safe Mode with Command Prompt

If Windows XP has become unstable and you can't even use Safe Mode, but Safe Mode with Command Prompt still works, you can still launch System Restore.  Here's how:


http://support.microsoft.com/kb/304449