IT Filter: Anyone know of a resource or protocol for opening .QIC files (Old Windows backup file format) short of finding a machine with Windows 95/98 on it? Had a laptop stolen and this is the only format in which I still have ALL of my writing from college/grad school. Any help is appreciated (please no lectures on backing up files... have learned my lesson.)
posted by Prevailing Southwest on Aug 10, 2009 - 4 answers

I'm just starting out as an independent network and systems contractor and I think I've agreed to a bad deal. What are my options? [more inside]
posted by anonymous on May 5, 2009 - 21 answers

When my Server 2003 desktop auto locks, the keyboard becomes unresponsive while the mouse continues to work. Anyone had a similar experience? No indicators in any of the logs. Running Dell 2950 and Avocent AMX KVM. [more inside]
posted by masher on Feb 20, 2009 - 2 answers

Question: where can I find a valid coupon/discount code for a Dell XPS 730x. I've heard there's some out there for 20-25% off, but I can't seem to find anything online that's working. Failing that, how much of a difference is it really if I just build a really sweet XPS 630? [more inside]
posted by Bageena on Feb 10, 2009 - 4 answers

I need to refresh my memory and grow my understanding of some fundamental topics in the areas of computer and information technology. Where can I find some reputable and detailed primers online? Further details within. [more inside]
posted by karizma on Dec 4, 2008 - 5 answers

What is the best and most intuitive PC/Mac inventory management/software distribution solution available for a small business with around 250 users and six IT guys? [more inside]
posted by joshrholloway on Sep 22, 2008 - 5 answers

I'm sure this question will not make me the most popular student at the dance, but is there a way to identify (via IP) machines running BitTorrent clients within an internal network (ie. work)? My company has around 50 employees, and the old, "Please don't torrent at work" doesn't seem to be doing much good anymore. It brings our email and web browsing to a near standstill, and dropping by the "usual suspects" is not only tiresome, but doesn't seem to find all the sources of traffic any longer. Any help would be appreciated, thanks.
posted by numlok on Aug 11, 2008 - 27 answers

Tell me about Network Attached Storage ( NAS )? In particular what current manufactuers should I avoid for a typical 1 terabyte (or greater) RAID array? I'm also interested in general information and pitfalls for NAS devices and implementations. [more inside]
posted by loquacious on Aug 10, 2008 - 13 answers

How do I transparently share files from a Windows Server 2008 box to several XP computers? I want it to stop asking for a username and password when people try to access files. Also, can anyone point me in the right direction to solving this weird network issue I've been having? [more inside]
posted by Magnakai on Aug 9, 2008 - 6 answers

Despite having no training whatsoever, I've gradually become 'the IT guy' at work. I want to get organized and begin building a documentation file but I have no idea where to start. [more inside]
posted by wabashbdw on Aug 4, 2008 - 18 answers

PHP: How do I get the explode() function to work with multiple separators in a row? [more inside]
posted by kaozity on Aug 1, 2008 - 8 answers

I'm an entry-level computer technician looking for advice on what skills are most vital for me in today's market, and how to best achieve them. Specifically, I would like to know what hands-on classes I should look into in the Nashville, TN area. [more inside]
posted by joshrholloway on Jul 9, 2008 - 16 answers

What should I install on my sister's computer when we meet up for an hour or so; in two categories free and not-so-free [more inside]
posted by trashcan on Jul 16, 2007 - 19 answers

What kind of salary can I expect as a computer lab technology coordinator at a fancy private school in the Boston area? [more inside]
posted by bonheur on Jun 5, 2007 - 4 answers

It's almost 60 degrees outside, so why is my computer frozen? ( know any free online IT help forums?) [more inside]
posted by Smarson on May 1, 2007 - 13 answers

What's the best way to get a job abroad? Specifically in the broad field of computers? [more inside]
posted by youthenrage on Sep 21, 2006 - 6 answers

IT/IS Managers: Help Wanted. How do i get a job in IT or IS? [more inside]
posted by Davaal on Jul 18, 2006 - 9 answers

My company is thinking about setting up a blog for IT analysts to contribute ideas and talk about our products. Does anyone know good places to find best practices for doing this? Anyone know of good example sites?
posted by xammerboy on Oct 25, 2005 - 7 answers

Webcam frustration: I have a Logitech QuickCam Pro 3000, and it's driving me up the wall. When it's not in use, the 'active' light is always on, but when I try to use it with any application, it goes off and the camera does nothing. I've done all the logical stuff I can think of - checked the Logitech site, Googled for this error, uninstalled and reinstalled software and hardware, changed USB ports and toyed with finding a major religion to cling to, but so far nothing makes any difference... so please help me, MetaFilter friends, or Mr WebCam will become surprisingly intimate with Mr Hammer... thanks!
posted by timpollard on Oct 15, 2005 - 2 answers

Am I qualified to do this IT job, and/or is it something I could pick up as I go? [more inside]
posted by anonymous on Oct 13, 2005 - 12 answers

Computer fixing frustrations - what to do when you've replaced (pretty much) every part and the problem continues? (more inside) [more inside]
posted by Mossy on Sep 15, 2004 - 9 answers

I have recently been asked to put together some training programs for work, technology related. Looking for some advice on how to proceed... [more inside] [more inside]
posted by benjh on Jan 8, 2004 - 5 answers

I've always thought of myself as somewhat computer savvy, but apaprently I'm not, considering how clueless I am with the following question. Somewhat on the same vein as this previous thread, short of raising any suspicions by directly asking our IT guys, how can i tell if my internet browsing on my work computer is being monitored? And if it is, are there any steps I can take to counter the software, so that I may continue to waste away unproductively, with confidence? [more inside]
posted by lotsofno on Dec 19, 2003 - 12 answers