So you have recently updated to either Windows Internet Explorer 7 or 8 and now ActiveX control keeps popping up and driving you crazy. Don’t worry it is normal and an added security feature put in to help protect you and your computer. ActiveX controls and web browser add-ons have been utilized for a long time on the internet. Their purpose is to make your browsing easier, the most common you will notice being toolbars.

The extensive use of these small programs can malfunction at times causing issues with your computer (i.e. a toolbar updater not working properly and causing other computer hang ups while it attempts to run). Be careful what you allow to run on your computer if a warning pops up when you navigate to a website that is unfamiliar. It is possible that their purpose is to collect information from your computer (potentially damaging information in the process) or installing software on your computer (without your consent.)

For those who would prefer the manager be disabled to avoid the interruptions and popups, it is possible, it is possible but not recommended. For more detailed information about the Add-on Manager visit http://support.microsoft.com/kb/883256

Helpful Quick Tips:

• You can activate and disable add-ons by going to “Tools” then “Manage Add-ons.”
• If an ActiveX control is not essential to your computer activity, try to avoid installing it.
• Only install ActiveX controls or add-ons if you completely trust the publisher and the website offering it.

Changing out to an updated version of a program we are used to can be an exciting and scary experience at the same time. Most software creators try to make the changes as seamless as possible and add new perks into the purchase of an upgrade as well. Microsoft has done this with the transition of Word 2007 to Word 2010. If you are new to the world of Word 2010 take note of the following for some interesting tips. You can visit http://technet.microsoft.com/en-us/library/cc179199.aspx#BKMK_New for a more detailed list of what is new and what has changed with Word 2010.

Microsoft incorporated the use of fluent user interface (UI) into their design. It is easier for people to find and use features, while keeping the workspace uncluttered. If you are new to Word 2010, initial navigation will take some getting used to but will be a time saver as you become a UI guru. To see related resources visit Microsoft Office Fluent User Interface Resource Center

Introduction of the ribbon. The ribbon has taken the place of the traditional drop down menus you are accustomed to. It is as fast moving and dynamic as it needs to be and can be customized to your own needs. The file tabs automatically open up to an icon based view of associated commands. This will be an easier transition from previous versions of Word if you worked better with icon visuals.

Print and Print Preview. Print Preview and Print commands have been combined under the “File” tab. Previous versions of Word had them separated.

The Migration of Existing Word Files. Note that the default file format has not changed in Microsoft Office 2010. There is a compatibility mode for Word 2007 and Word 97-2003. If you are working with files originally created in either Word 2007 or Word 97-2003 you may have to “Save As” a Word 2010 file if inputting advanced features only available to Word 2010 documents.

Helpful Hint: If you are sending Word 2010 files to someone who doesn’t have Word 2010 or Word at all they can download a viewer that will allow them to view, print and copy Word 2010 documents at http://www.microsoft.com/download/en/details.aspx?id=4