InBox

By DON McALLISTER

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

"Spybot: connection to database server not possible."

Barry has tried to update Spybot S&D but received the above message.

It's the Spybot server under strain, Barry; there's been such an increase of spyware or hijackings recently that their server has been dealing with a huge volume of traffic.

This message appears when the server is too busy to handle the work; return at a different time and it should work. Spybot admin is aware of the problem.

Further on this issue from Barry: "Spectacular! Spybot found 27 entries which I was unaware of (and I run it in the background normally)!"

Yes, Barry, it pays to start Spybot weekly, do the update check, then scan; sometimes new irritations get in; the next update finds then removes them.

Is there a backup program for Outlook files, asks Paul?

"The Majik backup program for all or certain files from OE was an excellent tip. Do you know of a similar type of straightforward program available for use with Outlook 2003?

"I have briefly checked out the website you provided for OE backups but it appears to be only OE related."

Here's a couple of solutions, Paul; Firstly, Microsoft has a free add-on that provides regular backups of your personal files that Outlook uses to store its data - search for: pfbackup.exe

Alternatively, if you prefer to try a paid Non-Microsoft solution, try "Outback Plus" on a 15-day demo from AJ Systems

If you like it, the price is US$29.95 ($48).


* Email us your question about computers