HOW-TO use Powershell - Part 1
by Rajib Bahar
I was excited hear about powershell feature in SQL server 2008. Initially, it was not clear to me what it was, yet, I was enthused about learning something new. I imagined power shell would involve something in the command line. What happens after that was a complete mystery to me. Anyways, I managed to spend some extra time to learn about the powershell technology. I am going to split this article into multiple series. In the 1st part, I will cover how to work with variables and various helpful commandlets.
Powershell is an extended shell that allows us to manipulate objects and do various scripting tasks. It takes the adavantage of .NET. We will often run into CmdLet in powershell. A commandlet is a .NET object that exposes functionalities for us. For example, there is a cmdlet called “New-Variable” which can be used to declare variables.
To start running powershell type in “sqlps” in command line prompt. If you do not know what cmdlets are available for use then simply type in “get-alias”. This handy little cmdlet can show you the shorthand for the available cmdlet. This will get you started so you can start exploring cmdlets. There is another cmdlet named “get-command” that lists all available cmdlets.
PS SQLSERVER:> get-alias
CommandType Name Definition ———– —- ———- Alias ac Add-Content Alias asnp Add-PSSnapin Alias clc Clear-Content …
When I started working with powershell, I struggled to find documentation on cmdlet. I looked in books online and it did not have much at that time. There were some references on cmdlets. Anyways, there is no need to despair. A cmdlet called “Get-Help” that can help you pull cmdlet related documentation from the command line. You are to provide the name of the cmdlet as the argument. Other useful arguments available for most cmdlets include “-detailed”, “-full”. Those flags allows you to pull very detailed information on the parameter. Amongst the, the “-full” flag is the most comprehensive. Also, if you type in “Get-Help *” then you can see a list of all available help topics. Powershell documentation reminded me of the manpages in unix computer and the RTM mantra.
Strings, variables, objects:
Declaring and working with variables is very simple. It can be accomplished using cmdlets such as “New-Variable”, and “Set-Variable”. Also, we can declare it like one would do it in scripting languages like perl, php.
PS SQLSERVER:> $rnd = New-Object “Random” PS SQLSERVER:> $rnd.Next() 778277127 PS SQLSERVER:> $str = “Me” PS SQLSERVER:> $i = 1
In the output above, we declared a variable namely $rnd using the Random class in .NET framework. The next line invoked the Next() method to generate the random number. The New-Object cmdlet can help us instantiate any .NET framework classes. However, keep it in mind that we have access to a subset of .NET framework classes. We can refer to any class that SMO can refer to. That’s the only constraint I found here. In addition to building reference type variables, we can also create primitive types such as string and integer. The example above $str, $i does that respectively.
How do I know which variable is of which type? It’s fair question due to the fact that there are no enforcement of type declaration. We simply call the method GetType() on the variable. See the output below.
PS SQLSERVER:> $i.GetType()
IsPublic IsSerial Name BaseType ——– ——– —- ——– True True Int32 System.ValueType
There are special variables in powershell. Here is a list of them and what they do:
1. $_ - Captures the current object in the pipeline, used in script blocks, filters, and the where statement. 2. $Args - Contains an array of the parameters passed to a function from command line. 3. $Error - the object containing error information. 4. $Home - user’s home directory. 5. $PsHome - Windows PowerShell installation directory.
This is all for the 1st part.
My blog:http://www.rajib-bahar.com
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Here’s an Easy Way To Find New Wii Games - Wii Game Downloads!
by Sam Lockwood
As you’re well aware, the Nintendo Wii continues to sell like crazy! What’s remarkable to me is how it’s popular with all age groups since it’s so unique of a system. Today we’re going to go over how you can save money by downloading Wii games from your computer instead of having to always buy them at the store.
Downloading Wii games is a fairly new trend. In fact, the majority of Wii owners aren’t aware of the how easy it is to download games for their systems. When we polled our readers about this, many had heard of downloading games or music but they didn’t realize that you could actually find full game versions for download. Most people seemed to think that they could only find partial game versions or extremely old games for download.
The good news is that you can find full games online for downloads including new releases and the most popular ones out there. The selection is impressive and we should warn you right off the bat - it’s highly addictive!
Ok - let’s get to it! Here’s how you can download Wii games.
First off, we should give you a warning about websites that advertise “free Wii downloads”. There’s a few of them out there and for the most part, they need to be avoided.
What you’ll find with these sites is that they are simply a network of files uploaded by random users. Anyone can add any file they want and the submissions are completely unmonitored. This causes all sorts of problems - on these sites you run a big chance of getting a virus or download a file that has spyware or some other infection. There are also many files that are listed as a game, however once you download the file it ends up being corrupted or something completely different.
These websites are a nuisance since you hardly ever find working files and they can be dangerous to your computer - stay away from them!
Instead, if you’re interested in downloading Wii games you will want to look into joining a membership based website. Because of the Wii’s popularity, there are now websites that are run by professional companies that offer Wii downloads (you will have to join as a member).
These websites are regulated and run by businesses that want to keep their customers happy, so all the game files work, are virus clean and the download speeds are fast.
The cost to join these sites vary - you can expect to pay around $50. This is a one-time fee that gives you full access to their members area. You are then consider a lifetime member and can download as many games as you want, whenever you want.
A quick note of caution - there are some sites that charge monthly fees or “per-download” fees. I wouldn’t join these simply because they end up being more expensive than buying a membership.
If you’re worried that you won’t know how to use the games once they are downloaded, you can take comfort in the fact that these sites will give you exact instructions on getting the games to work on your Wii. You will also get the software you need to transfer the games onto your system.
The better sites will give you a moneyback guarantee so that you can try them out and see how it goes. We warned you before that it’s easy to get hooked to download Wii games!
Using Wii game downloads makes it incredibly easy to try out new games (and a lot cheaper!).Click Here to start a trial of the most-popular Wii download membership service.
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Beware Of Low Cost Or Flat Fee Ads For Computer Repair Services
by Arthur Penz
We’ll fix anything for a $45 flat fee! How can this be?
It can’t! When you see these types of ads on Craigslist or anywhere else, our best advice to you is to move on and keep looking. This type of ad normally indicates that the service provider has little experience, insufficient skills, or is simply somebody who is trying to make an extra buck to supplement their existing income. Why would anyone risk losing the data on their PC such as pictures, emails, important documents, etc?
One service that this is especially true of is virus and spyware removal. It takes HOURS, to completely remove a virus. If someone tells you they can remove your virus simply by running a special software utility, you are being misled or the person simply doesn’t know what they are doing. Viruses leave behind remnants that can only be removed manually and this requires that the technician has advanced skills and knowledge of Windows and all of its components. In some cases, the best method is to re-install Windows but every case is different. No matter what your situation is, make sure that whoever you pick to work on your PC backs up all of your data prior to their attempt to remove a virus. Ask questions such as how will you back up my data? The answer should be that the person has a server or external hard drive that they use to store your backed up data. We’ve seen to many customers that have come to us after their PC has been trashed because of improper techniques by the
technician that worked on their PC.
When you consider the information above, now ask yourself how someone can provide this service for a flat fee such as $45? It takes several hours alone just to wait while your data is being backed up and then to re-install windows and restore your data after the install is complete. On average it takes us at least 4 hours of labor to clean a customers PC. That breaks down to an hourly rate of a little over $10 an hour if you charge $45. Keep in mind this doesn’t include travel time if provided. Since almost all independent contractors do not have enough work to bill their services for 40 hours a week, you have to wonder why someone would do this? If they managed to bill 30 hours a week their yearly income would be a little of $15,000 a year. Now ask yourself if this person really has the background and skills that you would want them to have before working on your PC? We don’t think so and we doubt you do either.
Our advice to you is to call several different vendors and ask questions and get references before making a decision. Be very leery of employing part time technicians who are working on the side. Ask the person what their qualifications are and their employment history. Are they currently employed in a profession totally outside of the technology field? If so, you should consider this a red flag! We typically charge $140 to completely back up your existing data, re-install Windows, restore your data which ends up making your PC run as good as when it was new. We firmly believe we are worth every penny we charge and that our price is fair to our customers. Make sure you select a vendor who feels the same way!
This article was submitted by Computer Repair Spa of Georgia. We provide a wide range of computer repair and consulting services for the Atlanta Georgia metro area. Please visit us at http://www.georgiacomputerrepair.net/gapcrepair/index.html for more information on who we are.
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Virtual Desktops Double Your Workspace - FREE
by Jim Edwards
Virtual desktops make it possible to enjoy the convenience of multiple desktops on your Windows computer screen, without the expense (or hassle) of using a multiple-monitor setup. Long enjoyed by Mac users and Linux fans, virtual desktops recently made it to Windows.
Best of all, with free product releases by Microsoft and Source Forge, you can enjoy the advantages of a multiple desktop environment at absolutely no charge.
A virtual desktop program allows you to open multiple desktops and operate different programs on each one. They enable you to group your work and cut down on clutter (and open windows) that often make it difficult to accomplish anything on your computer. For example: on one virtual desktop you might open all your email-related windows, while on another your display your word processor and desktop publishing programs to create a flyer. The two biggest advantages of operating with multiple virtual desktops: (1) less clutter and (2) greater organization.
Each virtual desktop software I tested gives you at least two different ways to quickly switch between multiple desktops. You either use a series of hot-keys (key combinations such as “ALT” + 1), or you use your mouse with a small clickable widget in your computer’s task bar tray (lower right for most Windows users) to navigate between desktops.
Either way, once you get the hang of it, you’ll find yourself switching between your new-found desktop real estate like an old pro.
In fact, the only disadvantage I found in using virtual desktops as opposed to multiple monitors is that you can’t see all your open windows at the same time. But, is that really a disadvantage (since my head would explode looking at 2 or 3 monitors at the same time or trying to organize it all on the same desktop)?
After using a virtual desktop program on my own computer, I found myself falling into a few distinct patterns of use. I found that first thing in the morning I set up one desktop for “communications” with e-mail, instant messaging, news feeds and Skype account. Then, based on what I need to get accomplished during the day, I usually create another desktop for creative work like writing and researching with my word processor, mind mapping software, and other online research tools. Finally, I also create desktops based on specific situation, like when I need to create a video or do a webinar. I can open just the programs I need without cluttering up my mind or my desktop with things I don’t need for the immediate task at hand.
As an aside: you can easily use v-desktops to hide your unauthorized computer use from your boss if he appears unexpectedly. Just pre-load one of your desktops with spreadsheets and “work” that makes you look like a dedicated employee. Then, when he pokes his head in your door, you can instantly swap over to the “work” desktop with a hot key when he walks by your cubicle! (Okay, maybe this last one’s a little extreme.)
2 Free Options for Windows Users Desktops v1.0 by MicroSoft -
http://technet.microsoft.com/en-us/sysinternals/cc817881.aspx
This program runs in your system tray and is super-small in both file size and resources used. It allows up to 4 desktops to operate at a time. I did notice that my mouse scroll wheel did not work on any but the main desktop screen (a minor inconvenience, but still worth noting).
VirtuaWin - The Virtual Desktop Manager - http://virtuawin.sourceforge.net/
Another free program offered by Source Forge, Virtua-Win allows you to operate up to 9 desktops simultaneously. I couldn’t determine if this software runs on Windows Vista or not (I don’t operate a Vista machine). VirtuaWin is more configurable than the Microsoft Desktops software, offering not only more desktops, but also more options for hot keys to launch and switch between desktops.
Both software packages come free of charge and work with Windows XP. They rate a hard look if you find yourself either wishing you could organize your work better, or if you don’t have the budget or space to allow a multi-monitor setup.
Copyright (c) 2008 Jim Edwards
FREE ONLINE VIDEO: Check out http://www.CoolSiteWeekly.com for a video that demonstrates exactly how you can use both of these free virtual desktop programs to free up desktop space and massively improve your productivity by eliminating clutter.
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Why Have a VPN Account?
by Gen Wright
There are many reasons why you need to have a VPN account. Many computer users have their systems compromised mainly due to ignorance. They are simply not aware of the threats that are lurking in the cyber world, and these threats are just waiting to be unleashed. Here are some reasons why you would need to have a VPN account.
- Security for Hotspot Wireless Access Users
Wireless internet access have numerous vulnerabilities that may lure mischief makers to do harm to your system. Because hotspots are available to the general public, they are also popular locations for those looking to target unsuspecting network users. For instance, someone can just connect to the network and start sniffing out sensitive information such as user names, passwords, credit card information and so on. Having a VPN account will help prevent a sniffer from accessing sensitive information.
- Home Internet Users - Cable and DSL providers are well known for not filtering their network from exploits.
Many Internet home users on cable and DSL leave their systems unprotected. A virus can easily infect a vulnerable system without the knowledge of the computer user. With a VPN connection, intruders cannot pinpoint the exact IP (IP will be a US IP address) and therefore, exploits cannot take place successfully.
- International Internet Users - Governments would like to prevent users from enjoying the Internet, with a USA IP there are no controls.
Some Governments restrict access from certain countries because they suspect the traffic to be malicious. Unfortunately, they also block off all the other innocent surfers, who are just trying to enjoy the Internet. With a VPN connection, your IP address will appear as a US IP address. So you can continue to enjoy unlimited access on the Internet without having to worry about Government blockages.
- Easy online ordering when you travel - Many order forms on the Internet will automatically block certain countries from even ordering.
That has another side benefit - Because you are not blocked, that means you can place online orders freely. You don’t have to worry about websites blocking you based on IP address.
- Bypass ISP Blocking for VOIP Applications like Skype.
Instant chat applications like Skype sometimes block users based on ISP. Again, when they do that, all members using the same ISP is affected. So if you happen to be on an ISP that is blocked, you are out of luck. However, when you are on a VPN network, you can actually bypass the blocking and have full usage of your chat applications.
- Full anonymity by hiding your real IP.
Some websites do not respect your privacy. They place cookies on your Internet browser to track your surfing activities without your permission. While most websites do that with good intentions, there are some websites that do that with ill intentions. The problem is, you can never tell. So the right thing to do, is to take precautions by connecting through a VPN. That way, you remain anonymous by hiding your real IP address.
- Unlike a proxy, you get secured connection for all programs you are using, (e.g ICQ, Email, FTP, News and anything that uses a Internet Connection)
Even if you connect to the Internet through a proxy, your connection is still not secure. Your data transmission can still be intercepted. When you use a VPN, you are assured that you are surfing using a secured connection.
When you have a VPN account, you enjoy all the above benefits. Be reminded to choose a service provider that providers reliable VPN services (at least 99% uptime) and high speed connections. This will ensure that your surfing experience remains secure, enjoyable and uninterrupted.
Visit or website for VPN Safe Secure Services Protection
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