With Andrew Hardy Owner of DoubleClick-IT

Q: I read your answer to a reader's problem with USB. I, too, have been having difficulty getting a USB scanner to work but I am using Windows 98. Can you provide any further advice?

A: The first thing to do is to make sure you have the latest drivers for the scanner. Go to the manufacturer's web site and see if there is a more up-to-date driver. You could also try to see if the USB port is enabled in the BIOS. You should only change your BIOS settings if you have a good idea what you are doing. A detailed discussion of what USB problems can occur can be found at:

www.vistaimaging.com/support/faq.htm#FAQ11
They also provide a useful utility to check to see if your machine is "USB ready".

Q: Can you tell me how to create a boot disk for Windows 98?

A: A boot disk enables your computer to load a rudimentary operating system from a floppy disk. This can be useful if you are upgrading the operating system on your computer or if your computer is completely failing to boot up from the hard disk. To create a boot disk, first go to the control panel (click the Start button, then select Control Panel from the Settings menu). Double click on the Add/Remove Programs icon. Click on the Startup Disk tab and make sure you have a blank, formatted floppy disk in the floppy drive. Click the Create Disk button. You will be prompted to insert the Windows 98 CD so make sure you have this to hand.

Q: I have heard colleagues refer to internet fire-walls. Can you explain what these are?

A: A firewall essentially acts as a barrier against malicious attacks over the internet. When a computer is permanently connected to the internet (as many IT companies are), it is possible for know-ledgeable hackers to gain access to that company's computer network and potentially cause problems. A computer firewall screens each data packet and only allows through those it deems legitimate. Dialup connections through modems or ISDN are much safer because they are allocated a different connection each time they connect.

Q: I have noticed "ini" files on my system. Can you tell me what they are?

A: Many programs use settings files to maintain inform-ation about user prefer-ences or hardware details and store such settings. These are text files and could potentially be edited, but you should steer clear. They often play a pivotal part in correct software working.