Sunday, 2 June 2013

How to use Whatsapp on your PC.



Whatsapp is intended to be used on a mobile device and not on a PC however there is a work around to get it up and running on your desktop or laptop.

Since whatsapp was intended for a mobile device you would need a mobile player or emulator installed on your PC first.

Bluestacks App Player :  Bluestacks is a Silicon Valley-based software company that produces BlueStacks App Player and BlueStacks Cloud Connect. Both products revolve around enabling Android applications to run on Windows PCs, Macintosh computers and Windows tablets.

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Above: Visit the website and click on the appropriate download.


 Above: Before you can add any apps to your Bluestack player you will need to enable the Appstore  and complete the sync.


 
 Above: If you already have a Gmail account click next, if not you will have to register a free Gmail account.


 Above: Log into your Gmail account.



Above: Once your account is linked your Bluestacks app player will be syncronised with  your account. when 'syncing' is complete click Finish Setup.



 Above: Now go to your home page and click on App Search Tile.


  Above: Type 'Whatsapp"' in the search box then click the 'Find' button


 
Above: Select the Whatsapp icon under the android shopping bag.


Above: Accept the Google Play Terms of service & opt out of news and offers if you want to.


 Above: You will get a description for the whatsapp app - click the download button.



  Above: Once Whatsapp is downloaded and installed you can select  the open button or you will find the whats app icon tile on your homepage.




 Above: Whatsapp start up splash screen click 'agree and continue'.  




 Above: Type in your country


Above: Type in your Mobile No.




Above: Now the most important next step is to verify you mobile no. Click call me. Within a few second your phone will ring with a recording. The recording will be the 6 digit code type that in to verify.



Above: You can now log in with your username and password.



Notes: 
  • You can add your contacts  manually or if you connect your phone to your PC or have a back-up of your contacts  you can import them. I found it very easy to add my Blackberry contacts.
  • When you log in to your whatsapp account on your PC you will be disconnected from your whatsapp on your mobile device and vice-visa.

Thursday, 30 May 2013

How Google search works

Google's search engine is a powerful tool. Without search engines like Google, it would be practically impossible to find the information you need when you browse the Web.
Like all search engines, Google uses a special algorithm to generate search results. While Google shares general facts about its algorithm, the specifics are a company secret. This helps Google remain competitive with other search engines on the Web and reduces the chance of someone finding out how to abuse the system.­Google uses automated programs called spiders or bots, just like most search engines. Also like other search engines, Google has a large index of keywords and where those words can be found.
What sets Google apart is how it ranks search results, which in turn determines the order Google displays results on its search engine results page (SERP).


Wednesday, 29 May 2013

Where did the new Toolbar come from and why has my Homepage changed?

If you have installed or updated any new "free" programs, chances are you did not see the small print that says they are going to install all these other things as well.
 When you install a new program, especially if it's freeware or shareware, don't just blindly click through each page of its installer.  If you're not paying attention, you might click right past the setup screen that lets you opt out, (usually a check box that you can untick). Take your time, and make sure you're not inadvertently agreeing to install a toolbar.
Often  if you did not opt out you may also find that your Homepage has been changed.

Below: example a toolbar opt out option when installing java.


Do not let your browser get cluttered with toolbars,  yes some toolbars are  legitimate and designed to make your surfing experience easier and more pleasant, however  having many toolbars reduces the size or your web browsing area and often slow down your browsing experience.
There are also Virus/Infections that disguise themselves as helpful toolbars. Shopping Deal toolbars are a common one. Remember once a virus gets into your system it can open up all sorts of other doors for more infections to come creeping into your PC wreaking havoc along the way.

 Below: A browser cluttered with Toolbars.