InBox

By DON McALLISTER

Welcome to InBox, where we attempt to answer your internet questions.

Q. Wayne writes: I have Microsoft Windows ME and can't find back-up. Is it an omission in ME or have I not searched properly?

A. Backup is included in the retail versions of ME but not in the OEM (Original Equipment Manufacturers) version, Wayne. This Microsoft article explains why. Or you can search for "Backup" at Tucows for a smorgasbord of shareware, demo-ware or even a few freeware backup options.

Q. Irene has language error messages whenever her sister corresponds, yet other senders don't produce the same problem.

A. Before I could reply, Irene wrote again; Problem solved. Her sister's software was set to use Arabic characters. The correct default setting for NZ in OE/Tools/Options/Read (& in "Send")/International Settings, is: "Western European (ISO)"

Q. Alan is making the most of Usenet, but a side-effect is that his email spam multiplies daily. He asks: How can I stop my address being broadcast each time I post a message?

A. That's a huge trap for novices. Many seasoned posters modify their return address by replacing the e-mail full stops with the word "DOT"; allowing your intended responders to contact you. Other posters use a bogus address such as nobody@somewhere (check with your provider first; it might have a rule against using bogus addresses in Usenet). Change your Outlook Express News reply e-mail address without affecting your account settings in: Tools/Accounts/News/Properties/General.

Q. Squashing down files for e-mail Carol asks: "How can I send large text files without editing them, yet keep their size to a minimum?"

A. With XP it's easy, Carol. Right click the file/Send To/Compressed (Zipped) folder. This will create a zip compressed file that you can send. Earlier Windows versions require WinZip or try Tucows & search for "compression software".


* Email us your question about the internet