The Importance of Page 1 Search Engine Rankings for Search Results

Today anyone with a pulse can build a website with the online tools from GoDaddy, WordPress or thousands of other free programs.  The problem with Do it Yourself website development is that Search Engines (and your customers) KNOW when a generic template is used since there are thousands upon thousands of other websites that have the identical framework, code and design. 

 I am a Do it Yourself kind of guy, I fix my own cars, remodel my own houses and founded my own website company over 20 years ago.  What I realized after the first few years was that I can't do everything as good by myself and clearly there is value to hiring experts when it comes to specialty items.  I found I have serious talent when it comes to SEO, social networking, understanding anything technology related and instructing classes.  At the same time I realized I do not have the patience, or maybe my ADHD limits, to be the best programmer or graphics designer or project coordinator.  Instead of trying to be the Jack of All Trades, limiting the success of the people I worked with due to my limits, I realized the value of hiring the best expert for each step of the website process.

I learned to build websites similar to building a house where a foundation crew, framers, electricians, plumbers, roofers, superintendents, all work together to complete a portion of the project.  No electrician would try to build an entire house alone and no company should try and build a website without a team of professionals each performing the specific talent they are best suited for.  The result of building a website with a team of experts is higher rankings on search engines, more professional look/feel and usability and online marketing experts to make sure you reach more buyers and sell more online. 

A pretty website not listed on page 1 of the search engines is like having the best billboard in town setup in your basement.  Sure it may look nice but the only person who is going to see it is YOU or the people you directly bring to see it.  Nearly 95% of online users never go past page 1 of the search engine search results.  Only around 5% ever go to page 2 and 33% of all online users click on the the top 3 organic (not paid ads) search results. 

Search Engines such as Google, Bing and Yahoo know the difference between a template and a custom coded website.  They rank websites based on clean programming code, search engine optimized content, how items on the website are organized, the type of links and traffic, design and even where a website is hosted.   If you want to rank higher on search engines, reach more customers, sell more and control your brand online....you need to hire a team of experts with years of experience who really understand how search engines work.

Robert Dotcom Jackson
Website, SEO and Technology Expert, CEO
Internet Builders & Consulting - Building BETTER Websites, SEO and Social Marketing since 1995
Office 816-982-9674

Social Networking Has Made the World Less Social

The explosion of social networks has engulfed the world.  Online communication began back in the 1970's with Bulletin Board Systems or BBS used primarily by the military and educators.  I remember using BBS to communicate with my father, a computer programmer stationed in Japan as a child while we waited the chance to join him oversees.  I never imagined as a child how that simple text communication to someone on the other side of the world would progress.

Flash forward to 2015 and people are spending an average of 1.72 hours every day on social networks while personal, face to face interaction is at an all time low.  Call and office or associate and you often receive an electronic greeting asking to 'text or email' rather than leave a voicemail.  Social Networking connected the world while disconnecting us from each other personally.  We have 'online friends' all over the world we communicate with via Facebook, Instagram, Twitter, LinkedIn, Pinterest, Google+ and other online sources...but we don't take the time time to send a thank you card, visit family, friends or meet new people in person.

My business IS online marketing, I began teaching how to use social networks and Blogs to market as early as 2006.  What I realized is that I spend more time with friends online than offline although the entire premise of social networking was to be 'social'.  There is something to be said about meeting a client face-to-face, stopping by to say hello and have a coffee with an old friend or meeting a new love interest in person rather than through online dating.

I love the Internet, I love social networking but I also love and miss the real life interactions we all had before we became obsessed with social networks.

Robert Dotcom Jackson
Internet Builders Consulting
913-963-6792 Cell or text (don't call, I rarely answer)

Plan Ahead for a New Website with URL redirects and Custom 404 Pages to Retain Search Traffic

One of the common mistakes website companies and businesses make when they launch a new website is ignoring ALL of the links, pages and content from the old website.  If Google has Site Links indexed and listed for a website and the navigation menu that changes then it considers those broken links.  A broken link and bad code within a website will cause Google to remove the links and lower the overall ranking of the website on the Search Engines.

This is also important since other websites, Blogs or directories may have listed links to your website or specific pages within the website.  If you are the customer, not the website developer, then make sure to ask whomever is building the website how they handle links and content from the old website that are being indexed and marketed online.  If you are the website developer then be VERY sure to use 301 Redirects to inform search engines and directories of changes the the navigation menu, pages or content so the customer does not lose business because of a new website.

A 301 redirect is a permanent redirect which passes between 90-99% of link ranking value to the redirected new page. 301 refers to the HTTP status code for this type of redirect. In most instances, the 301 redirect is the best method for implementing redirects on a website.

The value to doing this extra work is that you will retain 90% of your past marketing efforts for the old website and old website links (URL's).  A 301 redirect is the best way to retain online marketing efforts from old websites while a Custom 404 Page is a catch all for users.

If you had a significant redesign of content, added or removed content or changed the navigation menu then add a Custom 404 Page.  This basically creates an area for users to view content for the new website when they may be looking for old content on the old site.  An example of a Custom 404 Page is located HERE with a list of the main content areas within the website.  Instead of just letting users view a 'Page Not Found' error it's best to spend a little extra time and money creating a Custom 404 Page.  Consider adding some humor or a random quote to the 404 Page to help the visitor smile when they find out the page they were looking for no longer exists.

Building a BETTER website with good code, SEO and Social Marketing is the best way to reach more buyers and sell more on the Internet.  Adding 301 Redirects and a 404 Page ensures your past marketing will not be lost with the online marketing upgrade.

Robert Dotcom Jackson
CEO, Internet & Technology Expert
913-963-6792 Cell or text
 www.Facebook.com/RobertDotcomJackson

www.InternetBuildersConsulting.com - Building BETTER Websites, SEO and online marketing solutions since 1995 - over 20 years expertise as the leading online marketing company!

Google Search Engine Changes Website Requirements to include Responsive, Mobile Websites which rank higher on mobile searches

As of Tuesday April 21st 2015 Google ranks websites built 'mobile friendly' structure outlined by Google in April 2014 higher for online shoppers.  This means that if you have an older website (usually more than 2 years old) that is not built to the new Google standards then you will start to slip down in search engine search results as other mobile friendly websites rank higher.

Google announced online: "Today's the day we begin globally rolling out our mobile-friendly update," Google said in a blog post Tuesday. "Now searchers can more easily find high-quality and relevant results where text is readable without tapping or zooming, tap targets are spaced appropriately, and the page avoids unplayable content or horizontal scrolling."

This change is due to the fact that nearly 60% of all online traffic starts on mobile devices and 46% of actual buyers are using mobile devices.  Google has the clout and power to significantly affect the success or failure of companies who rely on traffic from search engines.  For years we have been explaining to client's that Google products such as Blogger are preferred to competing software such as WordPress or the value of Google+ for online marketing.  This was clearly illustrated by the European Union filing against Google for ranking Google owned products and tools above competitors.

The best move for your business is to start work on a new website built in the Google friendly structure so you can reach more buyers and sell more online.  Even the best websites have to be rebuilt and redesigned at some point.  Utilize the content, images, look/feel of your current website for consistent branding while having a new custom website built to keep on top of Google search results.  If you would like a no-cost expert consultation on getting your website Google-friendly to remain in front of the competition contact the Internet Experts at www.InternetBuilderConsulting.com or connect with us on Facebook for tips, tools and expert examples of success.

Robert Dotcom Jackson
Internet & Technology Expert
Internet Builders - Building BETTER Websites, SEO & Social Marketing Solutions since 1995
913-963-6792 Mobile or Text 10AM to Midnight

Snapchat Social Network App for Photos, Video, Text Messaging, Training and More

Snapchat is a simple FREE app for iPhones, Android mobile devices that takes photos or videos for sharing with friends or associates.  The photos and videos include options to place a short 'title' of 31 characters on the screen for whomever you send your message to view as they see the photo or video.  The appeal of Snapchat is that it will disappear after a few seconds so it's perfect to send quick message, photo or video.

Snapchat defaults to a camera or video capture of YOU from your front facing camera (the same side as your screen) but you can change it to capture photos and video of others with the rear camera by touching the small icon at the top right of the screen which will rotate from front to rear camera and back again each time you touch the icon.

Touch the top right icon to rotate to the rear camera

To take a photo simply touch and remove your finger from the circle at the bottom of the screen.  To take a video touch the circle and hold your finger on it while recording the video and remove your finger when done recording.  It also records audio so you can narrate your video, share a quick message or just say 'hi' along with the video message.  

Touch the circle for a photo - Hold your finger on the circle to record a video

Once you have created your Snapchat masterpiece there are options to adjust how long the photo or video message may be viewed by touching the small number you will see in the lower left side of the screen.  If the number says 3 it means your message will be visable for 3 seconds, touch the number and select up to 10 seconds for the viewing of a photo while any video will play for the entire length of whatever you recorded.

Adjust viewing time allowed by touching the 'number' and save your Snap for later by selecting the 'down arrow' icon

Snapchat does not let you send photos or videos from your camera that were not taken through Snapchat.  There are 3rd party applications but most of those have been disabled or may get you kicked off Snapchat if they catch you using them so if you want to send a photo or video later you must record it and 'Save your Snap' in 'Stories' which also creates a folder on the camera specifically for Snapchat captures.  

You can create a 'Story' by saving multiple Snaps then 'add Snap to Story' which enables users to view the Story for up to 24 hours. This is helpful for instructional videos for clients, How To messages and productivity outside of just sending fun Snaps to friends or family.  

Save Snaps to create a Story with multiple photos or videos

The Chat feature in Snapchat is found by 'swiping' to the right (touch the screen with your finger and hold it down while moving it to the right) from the main screen then selecting the contact you want to send a message to.  Chat works similar to regular text messages including the option to add photos or video in the exact same method as you do for a regular Snap with the unique option to add a photo from your cell phone photo gallery.

Snapchat can be helpful for business communications although the majority of users are sharing thoughts, comments, amusing or random messages just for entertainment.  It's worth installing the free app since Snapchat continues to grow and it's one of the top used 'social networks' by the 30 and under Millennials age range.

Robert Dotcom Jackson

Internet Builders - Building BETTER Websites, SEO & Social Marketing Solutions

913-963-6792 Cell or Text

Find me on Snapchat - RobertDotcom 

www.Facebook.com/RobertDotcomJackson 

Google+ Now offers Custom URL's and Usernames for Profiles and Pages

It has been a long time coming but Google finally started releasing Google+ custom vanity URL's for select pages and profiles.  Facebook users have had the ability to select a custom URL since 2008 but Google held back until late 2013.  Users and select pages will be notified when they login to Google+ with a message across the top of the page "Your page is preapproved for the custom URL..." as you can see on the image for the Internet Builder Consulting Websites, SEO & Social Marketing experts page.

Once you login to Google+ and see the notification the process is fast and simple.  The next screen will show you the custom URL to select for your page or profile which you can confirm or cancel.

Once you select the custom Google+ URL simply confirm the choice and you will have one of the first vanity Google+ URL's in the country!  This permits better branding, faster access to pages and improved user experience...plus you can now list your Google+ profiles or pages on marketing materials!

If you have any questions or would like assistance in obtaining a custom Google+ URL for your company or profile contact the Internet Experts at www.InternetBuilderConsulting.com or call us at 816-842-7774

Robert 'Dot Com' Jackson

www.Google.com/+RobertDotcom 

Internet & Technology Expert

Internet Builder Consulting - Building BETTER Websites, SEO & Social Marketing Solutions since 1995

Great Friends are Valued More than Great Jobs

Problems with the economy and questions on financial future are everywhere but most Americans have not forgotten about the value of a good friend. According to Ipsos survey results about two-thirds of the American adults (aged 18-64) surveyed would rather have great friends than have a great career. Younger Americans (18-35) are 12% less likely than the average (58% vs. 66%) to say they would choose great friends.

This may be a function of having a longer career horizon to navigate and more worries over the future of the economy. Indeed, according to a July report from Penn Schoen Berland in partnership with Burson-Marsteller, younger Americans are pessimistic about their opportunities. When asked if the US economy is on the right track or off on the wrong track, 69% of respondents aged 18-29 chose “wrong track” versus 62% of those 65+ choosing “right track.”

Highly Educated More Career Minded

Additional results from the Ipsos survey indicate that adults with higher educations are more likely to choose a great career over great friends than those with lower levels of education, a result that seems logical on the surface given the former group’s investment in their education. Still, a majority 60% of those with high educational attainment would choose to have great friends, compared to 70% of those with low levels of education.

Adults from low income households are also more likely to eschew their friends for a great career than those from high income households (31% vs. 38%).

Biz Owners, Executives Value Careers

Although a majority of business owners and senior executives would choose great friends over great careers, there is a significant gap between those groups and their counterparts. For example, 41% of business owners would rather have a great career than great friends, compared to 33% of respondents who don’t own a business. Similarly, 43% of senior executives, decision-makers, and leaders would choose a great career, versus 32% who don’t hold those roles.

 Surprising as it sounds, the unemployed were far more likely to choose great friends over a great career than the employed (73% vs. 62%).

Other Interesting Facts:

• American women are more likely than men to choose great friends over a great career (70% vs. 63%).
• Chief income earners favor great careers more than those aren’t chief income earners (38% vs. 30%).
• Respondents in some key developing markets appear to be more focused on their careers than their friends. In Indonesia, 65% would rather have a great career than great friends. A majority in India (57%), Mexico (54%), South Africa (54%), and China (53%) would also choose a great career, as would almost half (48%) in Brazil.
• Respondents in Sweden (82%) and Hungary (74%) are the most committed to great friendships.

Value friends, relationships and life!

Robert 'Dot Com' Jackson
Internet Builder Consulting

Usefull Defragmenting, Anti-Malware & Screen Capture Programs for Windows

I have been compiling a list of useful software, tools and FREE applications for Windows the past few months to prepare a simple list of the best.

Hard Drive Degragmenting - running a hard drive defragmenting program can take HOURS if you use the built-in Windows Defrag Hard Drive tool.  This should be done at least once per month on all Windows computers but most people avoid it due to the length of time required.  Auslogics Disk Defrag may be downloaded for FREE from Cnet Download.com and takes less than 10 minutes to properly defragment (repair) a 500GB Hard Drive.  There is an option in the SETTINGS navigation menu to run the SCHEDULER program for automatic Hard Disk Defragmenting. 


Windows is notorious for Spyware, Malware, Adware and Viruses but many Antivirus programs do not catch everything.  Another excellent FREE tool to help reduce problems is Malwarebytes Anti-Malware also available for FREE from Cnet Download.com to scan, remove and repair infected files.

Attempting to capture images, errors, examples, websites and other content from the Internet or a monitor is sometimes difficult.  The basic Windows Print Screen has much to be desired so I recommend HyperSnap 7 for excellent professional screen capture and editing.  The program is FREE to download and try with a $39.95 fee for a lifetime license if you decide to keep it after 30 days.  The benefits of HyperSnap include editing, highlights, cut and paste, capture of webpages, images and anything shown on a computer monitor. 



These programs will help improve Windows and keep the computer running at top performance.  Malwarebytes should be set to run daily with a FULL scan while Auslogics is best to schedule for weekly or monthly defragmenting. 

If you need a website, Search Engine Optimization (SEO), Social Marketing or have any technical questions contact Internet Builder Consulting at 816-842-7774 from 8AM to 8PM daily!

Robert 'Dot Com' Jackson
InternetBuilderConsulting.com - Building BETTER Websites, SEO, Social Marketing & Technology Solutions since 1995

 

How to Protect Your Email from Viruses

Viruses today are terrible, many attach themselves to your email and send the virus out to EVERYONE in your contact list.

I learned a computer trick today that's really ingenious in its simplicity. As you may know, when/if a worm virus gets into your computer it heads straight for your email address book (contacts), and sends itself to everyone in there, thus infecting all your friends and associates. This trick won't keep the virus from your computer, but it will stop the virus from using your address book to spread further, and it will alert you to the fact, that the virus is on your computer.  

 Here's what you do:  

 1. Open your address book or contacts

 2. Add or create a "new contact" just as you would do if you were adding a new friend to your list of email addresses. 

 3. In the window where you would type your friend's first name, type in AAAAAAA

 4. In the window below where it prompts you to enter the new email address type in WormAlert@somewhere.com

 5. Complete everything by clicking add, enter, ok, etc. 

Now, this is what you've done and why it works: The "name" AAAAAAA will be placed at the top of your address book as entry #1. This will be where the worm will start to send itself to all your contacts and friends. When the virus tries to send itself to AAAAAAA, the email will be undeliverable because of the phony email address you entered (WormAlert@somewhere.com).  

After  the first attempt fails (which it will because of the fake email address), the virus will go no further and your contacts will not be infected. 

The second great advantage of this method is that you will receive a message immediately that the email cannot be delivered since it was a fake email address.  Thus, if you ever receive an email telling you that an email addressed to WormAlert@somewhere.com could not be delivered, you know that you have a virus on your computer.

Robert 'Dot Com' Jackson

Internet & Technology Expert 

InternetBuilderConsulting.com - Websites, Technology, Consulting, SEO & Social Marketing

816-842-7774 Office

Microsoft Live Mesh Instant Online Data Backup & Sync

Microsoft now offers an innovative FREE product with Windows Live 2011 called Windows Live Mesh to instantly backup and sync files, images, documents or nearly anything.  Sync, share, and access the information you need 24/7/356 from any Internet connected device.  Windows Live Mesh also synchronizes Internet Explorer Favorites and Microsoft Office settings between systems.
It works with your work computer, laptop, Mac, mobile phone and multiple devices in multiple places.  Stop emailing yourself copies of your changed files and get files across your devices by synchronizing them instead.

Add each device to your mesh by installing Windows Live Mesh software, and then choose folders to sync. You can sync a folder with one, two or several of your devices and it will keep all of them up to date with the same versions and data.

Share Live Mesh makes it easy to share your photos, files and documents.  Invite others to share a Live Mesh folder and keep it in sync on everyone's devices as files are added or updated automatically. 
Want to know what's happening in folders you're sharing - such as when members are invited or a file is changed? Live Mesh News automatically notifies you every step of the way anytime something has changed.

When you sign up for Live Mesh you automatically get your own personal Live Desktop - your Windows PC on the web complete with 5 GB of free storage. Synchronize files to your Live Desktop, and you’ll be able to access them using almost any web browser, no matter where you are from any device or computer.

We have been using this tool for several weeks and it works flawlessly with Windows 7 and Windows Vista systems though we have not yet tested on Mac or other systems. 

Robert 'Dot Com' Jackson
Internet, Social Marketing & Technology Expert
816-842-7774 Corporate offices

Internet Builder Consulting - Building BETTER Websites, SEO and Technology Solutions since 1995

Social Media Marketing Expert Setup, Optimization, Management & Training from only $350

Dotcom Gifts for the Holidays - HD Cameras & Video, Laptops for the Kids

With more than 500 million active facebook users I believe it is time to change what we give to kids over the holidays.  I know some kids want toys, bikes, dolls or games but for about the same price why not buy them a laptop of their own?  Kids are tough on electronics so I suggest checking out eBay or online stores for Panasonic Toughbook laptops (waterproof, drop proof, etc.) which can easily be purchased for $200-300 in nice working condition.

Jazmine steals my laptop every chance she has and she just turned 2 this summer so the best thing I could do for her future is to help her expand that interest by getting her a laptop of her own.  Laptops can help kids learn with unlimited educational games, many have touch screens for drawing (instead of on the walls) and with the Internet it is a gift they will enjoy for years! 

Another nifty toy that anyone can enjoy is the Kodak PlaySport HD waterproof High Definition Digital Video Camcorder and Camera.  It sells for under $150 and takes very good video in a small pocket size package with upgradable memory - did I mention it records underwater, in pools, at the beach or anywhere!

Flip Video seems to have all the attention but after using both the Flip and the Kodak I would suggest the waterproof expandable HD Kodak.  Another unique item that will be sure to WOW your friends and family is the Nikon S1100PJ 14MP Digital Camera, Digital Camcorder with BUILT-IN Projector - it is a high resolution Nikon Digital Camera that takes video and projects a 40 inch screen from the camera to show the photos of video instantly.  This sounds amazing and expensive yet it only costs around $325 through Amazon.com and it works great (I had to get one of these when they came out last year).


I am sure there are endless other nifty gadgets we all need but these were the few I had to suggest for the price and neat factor - enjoy!

Robert 'Dot Com' Jackson
Internet Builder Consulting - Building BETTER websites, Social Marketing and Technology Solutions
816-842-7774 Office

How to Save your Open Windows (Browser Sessions) When Closing Internet Explorer 8 (IE8)

One of the reasons I have liked Firefox for so long was the simple option it asks when you close the browser "Do you want Firefox to save your tabs for the next time it starts?" which is great when you have 10 windows open for research.  Internet Explorer has not caught on to this simple feature for IE8 but they DO have an option that will permit users to restore the last browsing session (restore all the tabs you had open when you closed Internet Explorer) using the “Reopen Last Browsing Session” option from the TOOLS MENU.

After opening IE8, click on tools and select “Reopen Last Browsing Session”  from the drop down menu and this will restore your last browsing session and ALL of the windows/tabs you had open when you closed Internet Explorer 8

Another useful feature of IE8 is the Compatibility View located next to the REFRESH button which permits you to view 'older websites' (meaning built before 2010).  Microsoft has already release Internet Explorer 9 BETA so expect even more changes in a few months!

Robert 'Dot Com' Jackson
Internet & Technology Expert
InternetBuilderConsulting.com - Building BETTER websites and Online Marketing since 1995
SocialMarketingBuilders.com - Building expert Social Marketing Solutions for Business

816-842-7774 Office

Adobe offers FREE 1 Year Creative Suite Live including BrowserLab Cross Browser & OS Testing!

One of the most important aspects of building a website is to ensure it works for the widest potential audience online.  An effective website takes into consideration what browsers buyers are using, what types of Internet Connections (speed), Plugin Versions (Flash, JAVA, etc.), monitor sizes and operating systems to ensure features on the website may be viewed by the target audience.  It is time consuming and often expensive to do this maintaining multiple workstation environments for the Quality Control staff to test properly though Adobe has helped with the latest Creative Suite  Live. 

Adobe has an ONLINE ONLY offer until April 30th 2011 for a FREE 1 year subscription to Adobe Creative Suite Live with the following features:

Introducing Adobe® CS Live, a set of online services that harness the connectivity of the web and integrate with Adobe Creative Suite® 5 software to simplify the creative review process, speed up website compatibility testing, and more.
CS Live includes:
Adobe BrowserLab
Preview dynamic web pages and local content with multiple viewing, diagnostic, and comparison tools. BrowserLab provides an easier, faster solution for cross-browser testing.
Adobe CS Review
Create and share reviews online and get feedback on design projects all from within your Creative Suite desktop application.
Acrobat.com
Streamline your work with extended teams by using online services for web conferencing, file sharing, and collaborative document authoring.
Adobe Story (beta)
Accelerate media creation by streamlining the flow of script data into your video productions.
SiteCatalyst® NetAverages™
Take advantage of the latest Internet usage trends on browsers, operating systems, and more to help optimize design for web and mobile screens.
 
BrowserLab is an EXCELLENT online tool for testing websites in multiple browsers and operating systems without having to maintain multiple computers (Mac/Windows, Safari, IE 7 & 8, Firefox, etc.).  Adobe SiteCatalyst NetAverages is an excellent tool to see the online trends of use for browsers, operating systems and plugins that will enable website developers to build websites for compatibility of the widest potential audience. 
 
Signup for a free 1 year membership with no strings attached by creating an account on the Adobe website here http://www.adobe.com/products/creativesuite/cslive/
 
When you are ready to have a BETTER website built for your business or improve Internet Marketing and Social Media Marketing be sure to contact Internet Builder Consulting at 816-842-7774.
 
Robert 'Dot Com' Jackson
Internet & Technology Expert
Internet Builder Consulting - Building BETTER Websites and Internet Marketing Solutions since 1995

Microsoft Security Essentials Antivirus, Spyware & Malware Protection (It's FREE)

The #1 provider of operating systems has come out with an excellent Security Essentials software package to protect Windows from virus, spyware and malware...and they released it for FREE! In days past Windows Users would invest in a third party antivirus program or go without Antivirus protection typically ending up with a computer full of Trojans (viruses, not the other kind) or mass email viruses or any number of problems.

Builder Consulting has been a Microsoft Solutions Provider since 1997 working with Microsoft to test and rollout new software so when Security Essentials was released it was installed on one PC to test.  Over the past few months our website and online marketing company, Builder Consulting has been upgrading all of the workstations to Microsoft Security Essentials from Norton (Symantec) Corporate Antivirus and AVG Antivirus with excellent results.  Nearly all o fthe workstations upgraded are performing better and a few had spyware and even a virus that none of the other programs had caught.

Anyone using Microsoft Windows can now download Microsoft Security Essentials Antivirus for FREE from the Microsoft website here http://www.microsoft.com/security_essentials/

If you have any questions, would like a consultation on other software, websites, social marketing or online marketing contact the experts at Internet Builder Consulting or call the offices at 816-842-7774

Robert 'Dot Com' Jackson
816-842-7774 Office
913-963-6790 Business Mobile

Internet Builder Consulting - Building Better Websites and Online Marketing since 1995

Internet Explorer, Firefox, Google Chrome Web Browsers Compete for Usage

Google's Chrome Web browser continued its upward march through May, cracking the 7 percent mark, according to Net Applications. Microsoft's Internet Explorer browser continued to fall, hitting 59.7 percent after falling below 60 percent through April. Mozilla Firefox stood at 24.35 percent, down from 24.59 percent. Apple's Safari browser nudged up a tad to 4.77 percent from 4.72 percent for May. If Chrome grows a full percentage point every two months, it will crack 10 percent market share by Dec. 1.

Google's Chrome Web browser continued its upward march through May, cracking the 7 percent mark after racking up 6.7 percent share through April.

Market researchers at Net Applications peg Chrome at 7.05 percent, meaning Chrome's market share grew a full 1 percent since March.

Chrome's gain came at the expense of several others. Microsoft's Internet Explorer browser continued to fall, hitting 59.7 percent after falling below 60 percent through April. 

Mozilla Firefox stood at 24.35 percent, down from 24.59 percent. Apple's Safari browser nudged up a tad to 4.77 percent from 4.72 percent for May.

While still the market giant, IE's strength is ebbing and won't likely get above 60 percent again.

Firefox was once the favorite to supplant IE, but its growth has clearly been stymied by the rise of Chrome, with people curious about the new browser.

Safari hangs around as the browser for Macs and should get traction from the iPad, which has sold more than 2 million units in two months. Chrome is where the real browser action appears to be simmering.

Chrome launched in September 2008, but it wasn't until the latter half of 2009 that the browser got its legs under it.

The browser held only 1.6 market share through March 2009, toiling its way to 2 percent in May last year and 3.2 percent in September, before jumping to 4.6 percent in December. 
Chrome began seeing great pickup after Dec. 8, when Google launched beta versions of Chrome for Mac and Linux. Chrome notched 5.2 percent of the market through January and 5.6 percent through February before hitting the 6.1 percent figure last month.
Google just released Chrome 5.0 in stable builds for Windows, Linux and Mac. This new version is much faster than previous versions and sports HTML5-based geolocation APIs and other features.

If Chrome grows a full percentage point every two months, it will crack 10 percent market share by Dec. 1, solid growth for a browser that launched in September 2008.

There is no reason to think Chrome can't crack double digits this year. Google is more aggressively advertising the browser on Websites such as ESPN.com and the New York Times.
Moreover, Chrome could see a boost in growth toward the end of the year when it appears as the access point for netbooks running the Chrome Operating System. Chrome will sit atop Chrome OS, allowing users to access Web applications.

Robert 'Dot Com' Jackson

Internet Builder Consulting - Building BETTER Websites and Online Marketing since 1995

816-842-7774

Vundo Virus Removal Tools for Windows

If you are having any of these symptoms be sure to download and run the following virus removal tools.  The Vundo virus has spread to computers worldwide, often without user knowledge until the symptoms occur.  

There are many different varieties of Vundo trojans, symptoms of Vundo vary widely, ranging from the relatively benign to the severe. Almost all varieties of Vundo feature some sort of pop-up advertising as well as rooting themselves to make them difficult to delete.

Computers infected exhibit some or all of the following symptoms:

• Vundo will cause the infected web browser to pop up advertisements, many of which claim a need for software to fix system "deterioration".
• The desktop background may be changed to the image of an installation window saying there is adware on the computer.
• The screensaver may be changed to the Blue Screen of Death.
• In the Display Properties Control Panel, the background and screensaver tabs are missing because their "Hide" values in the Registry were changed to 1.
• Both the background and screensaver are in the System32 folder, however the screensaver cannot be deleted.
• Windows Automatic Updates (and other web-based services) may also be disabled and it is not possible to turn them back on.
• Infected DLLs (with randomized names such as "__c00369AB.dat" and "slmnvnk.dll") will be present in the Windows/System32 folder and references to the DLLs will be found in the user's start up (viewable in MSConfig), registry, and as browser add ons in Internet Explorer.
• Vundo may attempt to prevent the user from removing it or otherwise impede its operation, such as by disabling the task manager, registry editor, and msconfig, thereby preventing the system from booting into safe mode.
• Some firewalls or antivirus software may also be disabled by the virus leaving the system even more vulnerable. Especially, it disables Norton AntiVirus and in turn uses it to spread the infection. Norton will show prompts to enable phishing filter, all by itself. Upon pressing OK, it will try to connect to real-av.org and try to download more malware.
• Popular anti-malware programs such as Spybot - Search & Destroy or Malwarebytes' Anti-Malware may be deleted or immediately closed upon loading. Renaming the program executable can work around this. Malwarebytes' Anti-Malware's executable may be deleted as soon as it is installed (depending on your infection). Installing the program on another computer and copying the executable into the infected computer's Malwarebytes' Anti-Malware directory usually works too.
• Web access may also be negatively affected. Vundo may cause many websites to be inaccessible.
• Google search links may be directed to rogue antispyware sites, which can be avoided by copy and pasting addresses
• Vundo may cause webpages to fail to load after sessions of browsing and present a blank page in the browser instead of the webpage.When this happens any programs may also fail to start and it may become impossible to use windows shutdown.
• The hard drive may start to be constantly accessed by the winlogon process, thus periodic freezes may be experienced.
• Warnings about SuperMWindow not shutting down[3]
• Explorer.exe may constantly crash resulting in an endless loop of crashing then restarting.
• Creates a virus critical driver in C:/Windows/system32/drivers/ (ati0dgxx.sys)
• The virus can "eat" away at available hard drive space; hard drive space can fluctuate so much as +3 to -3 Gb of space, evident of Vundo's attempt at "hiding" when being antagonized.
• Vundo can impede download progress.
• Windows Automatic Updates service may become disabled.
• Entering safe mode after attempting to use HijackThis results in a true blue screen of death, which cannot be recovered from without either restoring the deleted safe mode registry keys, or a reinstall of Windows.
• Sometimes gives a "Run a DLL as an APP" error when some of the randomly named DLLs have been deleted.
• Will rewrite randomly named DLLs while any of them reside on machine.
• Changes \HKEY_LOCAL_MACHINE\SOFTWARE\Microsoft\Windows\CurrentVersion\Run and RunOnce entries to start itself when Windows starts.
• Installs adware that 25% of the time is pornographic

Fake Antivirus Popup (Vundo) removal

Note if you can't execute any of these applications in normal windows then boot to safe mode with networking and start with MalwareBytes AntiMalware. Then boot back into normal windows and try again.

1. Download and run ATFCleaner. It will clear the temp folders.

2. Download and run SuperAntiSpyware(don't forget to update the definitions).

3. Downlaod and run Malwarebites AntiMalware (don't forget to update the definitions).

4. Download and run Combofix.

Notes:

·         If you can't execute SuperAntiSpyware or AntiMalware in normal windows then boot to safe mode with networking and start with AntiMalware (Update if you can). Then boot back into normal windows and try again.

·         If you can't update the programs run them as is Reboot then attempt to update and RERUN them again with updates. Don't skip running them again with updates you'll regret it.

·         The default settings/options for these programs are fine. Just make sure you update the definitions on 1 & 2. Also run the complete scan don't shortcut it will cost you in the end. 

·         I usually kill the installed antivirus program while Combofix runs. It will speed up the scan.

·         If IE is still acting strange then try one or both of these: Go to Tools/Internet options/Connections/Lan Settings/ And make sure the use Proxy is turned off. Go to Tools/Internet options/Advanced and reset Internet Explorer settings and advanced settings.

·         Expect the whole process to take the system from the user at least 4 hours depending on amount of data on the system. Don't take shortcuts or you may have to start over again. 

From the Internet Experts @ BuilderConsulting.com

913-814-8844 Office

PlayOn for $19.99 Holiday Promotion

The PlayOn software to wirelessly stream Hulu, Netflix and any other audio/video from your computer is on sale for the Holidays for 1/2 price or $19.99 using the coupon code HOLIDAY
http://www.playon.tv/playon/lp/purchase?prmcd=holiday

My last post to this Blog was a detailed outline of how to use PlayOn with a PS3 to watch High Definition video from the computer to any compatible TV - if you are considering this or have any tech lover be sure to take advantage of this offer!

Robert 'Dot Com' Jackson
BuilderConsulting.com - Building Better Websites & Technology Solutions since 1995
913-814-8844 Office

Use Technology to Watch Any TV Show, Movie or Video from Your PC to TV

I am constantly amazed at the number of people who pay insane amounts of money simply to watch TV which, in my mind, is a completely unproductive waste of time that could be better spent on a computer!  After personally spending $150 a month for cable and high speed Internet for years I found a better way to watch nearly any TV show, series or movie on any TV in the house without paying any extra.  There is an investment required to buy the equipment needed including a SONY Playstation 3, a computer (everyone should have one by now), a Wireless Router and a software package called PlayOn to feed everything from the computer to the Playstation 3 system.

SONY developed an amazing Blu-Ray DVD player and put it in one of the best gaming systems on the market that includes wireless networking and a hard drive for only $299.  A decent Blu-Ray DVD Player is over $200 so the investment is well worth the additional benefits of wireless networking and an amazine High Definition gaming system. Click on the PS3 image to see features and the $299 discounted rate for the system with 120GB Hard Drive (use it like a TIVO to record movies or games) on the top rated Buy.com website.

Once you have the Playstation 3 you need to setup a Hulu account to access nearly EVERY new series, TV Show, cartoon, classic or movie (it's free) at http://www.hulu.com/ - once you create a profile BE SURE to set your QUEUE as PUBLIC so your Playstation 3 can access and play everything.  Hulu has been well advertised and has all of the latest shows or series with a short delay in some cases (you may have to wait a few days to watch the latest episodes).  Write down your Hulu username and password since you will need them later to setup the PlayOn Media Center with your Playstation 3 to wirelessly view shows and movies.

Netflix users have an additional benefit with this setup since you can wirelessly stream movies from your Netflix Instant Que to the Playstation.  I have the 3 at a time account from Netflix which gives me 3 DVD's at any time (usually watching 1, returning 1 and waiting for 1 to show up) plus Instant movies on your computer and your TV if you use this setup!  Netfix has an amazing website that tracks what you liked or disliked and automatically provides new movies based on your preferances - signup for the 1 month free trial and see how you like it before deciding which package works best for your needs.

If you do not already have a Wireless Router (any Wireless G or N Router will work) then buy one to share your High Speed Internet with your laptop, Playstation 3 or other computers in your house.  I suggest a Linksys Wireless N Router that Buy.com has on sale (usually $70 but on sale for $35) sold as a refurbished item (looks and works like brand new for 1/2 the price) - click on te router to the left for the discount until they are sold out.  The Linksys WRT160N (image on left) is over twice as fast as normal Wireless G Routers at a fraction of the cost - free WIFI to share with your laptop and Playstation 3 for movies and TV Shows!

Wireless Routers today are pretty much Plug and Play meaning you plug it in, follow the directions and it works without much effort.  Linksys is one of the best networking equipment companies around while others such as 3COM and NETGEAR are also well made and easy to use in most cases.

The last item you will need is the PlayOn Media Center software by The Media Mall http://www.themediamall.com/ which also comes with a free 30 day trial to test and use first.  NOTE: The PlayOn software only works if you have high speed Internet since it sends audio/video from the computer to your PS3 and TV to view.  Most home users with DSL or Cable (broadband) Internet will have no problems using the software, consider lowering the quality level if it becomes jumpy or slow when viewing.  Download the software, install it on the computer you plan on using as your 'Media Server' with the Wireless Router and configure the software adding Hulu.com, Netflix, YouTube.com and any other account you may have.  After the PlayOn software has been configured properly reboot the computer and login to make sure the software automatically starts when the computer is started.  The PlayOn software must be running and the computer must be turned on with the Wireless Router plugged in and setup for everything to work properly.

The last and final step to begin watching movies, TV shows, series and videos anytime you wish wirelessly is to configure the PS3 to find the new PlayOn Media Server from the computer.  The PS3 needs to be connected to the TV or screen desired for use and turned on.  Go to the Video area of the PS3 menu and select 'Search for Media Servers' which will require a minute or two to complete.  Once the search has completed select the PlayOn Media Server and select it to review any of the services you have setup with PlayOn software.  A menu to the right expands to show Hulu.com, Netflix and other services you have signed up for.  Simply select any show or movie in your Que and play it instantly 24/7 at no cost without cable, DISH or any other service.

Thank you and enjoy!

Robert 'Dot Com' Jackson
BuilderConsulting.com - Building Better Websites and Technology Solutions since 1995
913-814-8844 Office

Best Laptops for Business and Home, Lighted Keyboards, Blu-ray and more!

It has been an exceptional year for technology and I have a new found respect for Dell computers of all kinds.  After years of being a loyal Sony Laptop and IBM Server or Workstation fan due to performance, quality and features.  The latest line of Dell computers, laptops and servers have been exceptional and extremely well priced.

One of the best desktop replacement laptop on the market is the Dell Studio 17 featuring a lighted keyboard (easy to read or view in any light or no light at all), large hard drives and dual hard drive options, a full keyboard with full 10 key (great for business and accounting), HUGE 17" LCD and LED monitors, slot loading DVD and Blu-ray reader/writer and still only a 7 pound package.  After purchasing a Dell Studio 17 and using it daily for over a month I found the performance was excellent for website development or Internet Browsing, Microsoft Office or any application with no hesitation and not a single failure.  The laptops retail for between $899-$1499 depending on the configuration but can be found in the Dell Outlet area for as little as $600 with the right Dell Coupon.

A bit lighter option is the Dell Studio XPS16 featuring a true 1080 HD screen, SEXY (yes a sexy laptop) chrome and leather trim in a wide range of colors, powerful processors, slot loading Blu-ray and DVD reader/writer options like the Studio 17 though the largest hard drive is 500GB rather than the 640GB options for the 17" model.  The Studio XPS16 is for the business professional who needs to LOOK good for meetings, presentations or simply those who desire style with their portable computing power.  Studio XPS16 models rival the good looks of any Mac, Sony or other higher end laptop options with power and reliability to back up the good looks.

Looking for desktop replacement power or simply performance with good looks then be sure to check out the latest Dell Studio laptops.

Robert 'Dot Com' Jackson
Internet & Technology Expert
www.BuilderConsulting.com - Building Better Websites & Technology Solutions since 1995
913-814-8844 Office

Excellent Reading on Business, Customer Service and Marketing

Over the years I saved hundreds of good articles and wrote more than a few myself pertaining to business, taking care of customers, marketing and life. A few of my favorites are linked below for review...

Bill Gates article from Microsoft on his success, challenges and business

Your attitude can make or break your success by Jeffrey Gitomer

A few Tips on Dealing with Difficult Clients or People by Robert 'Dot Com' Jackson

Boring Marketers have Skinny Kids, a great article about marketing by Terry Brock

Think About What the Customer Wants (most companies miss this) by Jeffrey Gitomer

If You Fail, it's because you've chosen to fail - an EXCELLENT article on personal responsibility and success by Jeffrey Gitomer

Turn to The Masters for Sales Principles a few key points from successful ethical sales and marketing experts by Jeffrey Gitomer

Busy or Productive - tips and points on organization and time by Robert 'Dot Com' Jackson

Life is about learning, growing and succeeding through doing what is right and helping others when the opportunity permits. The continued success and growth of Builder Consulting is due primarily to following these principles. If your business would like to be successful online contact Builder Consulting for expert website, online marketing and Internet Consulting solutions 913-814-8844.