Image Resizer Powertoy Clone now works in Vista and Windows 7 and is available in 32 and 64 bit versions

One of the most popular Windows XP PowerToys has been rewritten so that it can work with Windows Vista and Windows 7, in 32-bit as well as 64-bit. The Image Resizer Powertoy Clone for Windows is available for free on CodePlex

After installing all you have to do is right clicking on the images you want to resize and select Resize Pictures (see image below).


This is very handy if you quickly want to resize a bunch of images to email to someone. You don't need to open Gimp/Paint/Expression Media/PhotoShop/Lightroom you can do this all from Explorer.


After you right click on the images and select Resize Pictures then the following box will pop up where you then can specify the size you want



You can download the Image Resizer Powertoy Clone tool from CodePlex here: http://phototoysclone.codeplex.com/Release/ProjectReleases.aspx?ReleaseId=26281

I just can't believe it took this long before it was available for Vista and Windows 7

RTM of Windows Vista SP1 Announced

Here's the timing for SP1 availability for current Windows Vista users:

In mid-March, we will release Windows Vista SP1 to Windows Update (in English, French, Spanish, German and Japanese) and to the download center on microsoft.com. Customers who visit Windows Update can choose to install Service Pack 1. If Windows Update determines that the system has one of the drivers we know to be problematic, then Windows Update will not offer SP1. Since we know that some customers may want to update to SP1 anyhow, the download center will allow anyone who wants to install SP1 to do so.

In mid-April, we will begin delivering Windows Vista SP1 to Windows Vista customers who have chosen to have updates downloaded automatically. That said, any system that Windows Update determines has a driver known to not update successfully will not get SP1 automatically. As updates for these drivers become available, they will be installed automatically by Windows Update, which will unblock these systems from getting Service Pack 1. The result is that more and more systems will automatically get SP1, but only when we are confident they will have a good experience.

The remaining languages will RTM in April.

Necessary updates for Windows Vista

Are you running Windows Vista? Then you're going to want these two updates,which are not Windows Update at the moment:

An update that improves the performance, responsiveness, and reliability of Windows Vista is available
This update improves performance, responsiveness, and reliability of Windows Vista in various scenarios. This update resolves the following issues on a Windows Vista-based computer:
•
You receive a "Stop 0x000000A0" error when you try to switch the computer to the hibernate state.
•
You receive a "Stop 0x0000009f" error when you switch the computer to the hibernate state or to the standby state. Or, you receive this Stop error when you resume the computer from the hibernate state or from the standby state. This problem occurs on a computer that has a wireless network connection.
•
The disk does not spin down after a specified time of inactivity.Additionally, this update can help improve performance when you perform operations that are related to large disk I/O. After you apply this update, you may notice up to a 15 percent performance improvement in some copying operations and when moving some large files.



December 2007 Windows Vista Application Compatibility Update
The December 2007 Windows Vista Application Compatibility Update is a package of software updates that address common application compatibility issues in Windows Vista. When you try to install and run certain legacy games or applications in Windows Vista, you may experience one or more of the following symptoms:
•
The game, the application, or the firmware may not be installed correctly.
•
The game, the application, or the firmware may cause system instability.
•
The primary functions of the game, the application, or the firmware may not work correctly. This update is cumulative, and it supersedes update 935280. In addition to the fixes that are contained in update 935280, this update improves support in Windows Vista for the following games, applications, and firmware:
•
Adobe Acrobat Reader 7.0 - 7.07
•
WinAntivirus Pro 2007 v5.0.356
•
Webroot Software Spy Sweeper 5.0
•
Omniquad Total Security 2.0.3.0
•
Windows Internet Explorer 7 This update also includes fixes that are contained in update 932246. These fixes improve support in Windows Vista for the following applications:
•
Absolute Poker Version 5.7
•
ACDSee 8
•
Adobe Creative Suite CS2
•
Adobe Photoshop 7.0.1
•
Adobe Photoshop CS 8.0
•
Adobe Photoshop Elements Version 4.0
•
Adobe Premiere Elements 3
•
AOL 9.0 - x64
•
AOL Safety and Security Center 2.5.4.1
•
ArcSoft PhotoImpression 5
•
Auslogics Disk Defrag 1.0.3
•
AVG Anti-Spyware 7.5.0.47
•
Azureus 1.0
•
Battlefield 2 Deluxe
•
BeatJam 2006 SE
•
BitLord 1.1.5.6
•
Bitvise Tunnelier 4.20
•
Calyx Point 5.3
•
Crystal Player Professional 1.97
•
CyberLink PowerCinema 4.0
•
Delphi 7 Professional
•
Deterministic Network Extender (DNE) Driver - 3.12.2
•
Digital Zenkoku Map Townpage Database 7
•
Doranet Kids Nyugaku Jyunbi Taikenban
•
Doranet Shogaku Ichinensei Taikenban
•
EasyRecovery Professional Version 6.04
•
Family Feud Online Party
•
Google Desktop 4.2006.1008
•
HD Tach 3
•
HD Tune 2.5.1
•
IBM Rescue and Recovery with Rapid Restore 3.00
•
IBM SmartSuite Millennium Edition - Freelance Graphics 9.8
•
Justsystems Ichitaro 2006
•
Jv16 Power Tools
•
Label Mighty 6
•
LEGO Star Wars
•
Lenovo Presentation Director 1.0.0.1
•
LimeWire 4.12
•
Macromedia ColdFusion MX 7 Enterprise Edition
•
Macromedia Fireworks MX2004 7.0.2.295
•
Microsoft Age of Empires III : The Asian Dynasties Expansion Pack
•
Microsoft Age of Empires III : The WarChiefs Expansion Pack
•
Microsoft Age of Empires III
•
Microsoft DevStudio 9.0
•
Microsoft Digital Image Suite 2006
•
Microsoft Dungeon Siege II
•
Microsoft Dungeon Siege: Legends of Aranna
•
Microsoft Encarta Standard 2007
•
Microsoft Fable: The Lost Chapters
•
Microsoft Flight Simulator X
•
Microsoft Money 2005
•
Microsoft Money 2006
•
Microsoft Office 2003 Web Folders
•
Microsoft Office Outlook 2003
•
Microsoft Rise of Nations: Rise of Legends
•
Windows Small Business Server 2003 R2
•
Windows Small Business Server 2003 Service Pack 1 (SP1)
•
Windows Server 2003 Service Pack 1 (SP1) Administration Tools Pack
•
Microsoft Zoo Tycoon 2: African Adventure Expansion Pack
•
Microsoft Zoo Tycoon 2: Endangered Species Expansion Pack
•
Microsoft Zoo Tycoon 2: Marine Mania Expansion Pack
•
Microsoft Zoo Tycoon 2: Zookeeper Collection Expansion Pack
•
Microsoft Zoo Tycoon 2
•
Minna de TV Denwa Starter
•
Minna de TV Phone Starter 2.1.0.1
•
MotionDV STUDIO 5.8J for FUJITSU
•
Opera 9.02
•
Palm Desktop 6.0
•
Power Utility - Remote administration 3.1.0.0
•
RealNetworks RealPlayer 6.0.12
•
Rosetta Stone 2.1.3
•
Roxio Easy Media Creator 7.5
•
SG TCP Optimizer 2.0.3
•
SmartInstall 2.16
•
Softex OmniPass 1.0.0.1
•
Sony FeliCa Port (PaSoRi) 3.0.0.0
•
Speedbit Download Accelerator Plus (DAP) 8.1.5.6
•
SpeedFan 4.31
•
Sun Microsystems J2SE Runtime Environment 5.0 Update 9
•
Sun Microsystems Java Control Panel
•
The Weather Channel Desktop 5.0.1
•
Toshiba Tecra M7 1.70
•
Total Commander 6.55
•
Trend Micro Internet Security 2006 (PC-cillin) 14.0 – 14.59
•
Trend Micro Internet Security 2007 (PC-cillin) 15.0 – 15.19
•
TweakNow PowerPack 2006
•
Ulead DVD MovieFactory 5 Plus
•
Virtual CD 8
•
WinRaR 3.5-3.7
•
Yahoo AutoUpdater 8.1.0.249

What's New in Windows Vista SP1

Security
Provides security software vendors a more secure way to communicate with Windows Security Center.

Includes application programming interfaces (APIs) by which third-party security and malicious software detection applications can work with kernel patch protection on x64 versions of Windows Vista. These APIs help ISVs develop software that extends the functionality of the Windows kernel on x64 computers without disabling or weakening the protection offered by kernel patch protection.

Improves the security of running RemoteApp programs and desktops by allowing Remote Desktop Protocol (RDP) files to be signed. Customers can differentiate user experiences based on publisher identity.

Adds an Elliptical Curve Cryptography (ECC) pseudo-random number generator (PRNG) to the list of available PRNGs in Windows Vista.

Enhances BitLocker Drive Encryption (BDE) to offer an additional multifactor authentication method that combines a key protected by the Trusted Platform Module (TPM) with a Startup key stored on a USB storage device and a user-generated personal identification number (PIN).


Read the rest here: http://windowsconnected.com/blogs/joshs_blog/archive/2007/08/29/what-s-new-in-windows-vista-sp1.aspx

Fix: Unable to start debugging on the web server. Debugging failed because integrated Windows authentication is not enabled

FIX: Error message when you try to debug an ASP.NET 2.0 application in Visual Studio 2005 on a Windows Vista-based computer: "Unable to start debugging on the web server. Debugging failed because integrated Windows authentication is not enabled"

SYMPTOMS
In Windows Vista Home Basic or in Windows Vista Home Premium, you create a Microsoft ASP.NET 2.0 application by using Internet Information Services (IIS) 7.0. When you try to debug the application in Microsoft Visual Studio 2005, you receive the following error message:
Unable to start debugging on the web server. Debugging failed because integrated Windows authentication is not enabled. Please see Help for assistance.

CAUSE
This problem occurs because Windows Vista Home Basic and Windows Vista Home Premium do not contain the Windows Authentication module for IIS. When the client tries to automatically attach the debugger in an ASP.NET 2.0 application, the client sends a HTTP request that contains the DEBUG verb. This HTTP request is used to verify that the process of the application is running and to select the correct process to attach. This HTTP request must be authenticated by using Windows Authentication. However, Windows Vista Home Basic and Windows Vista Home Premium do not contain the Windows Authentication module for IIS. Therefore, the problem that is described in the 'Symptoms" section occurs.


RESOLUTION
Hotfix information
A supported hotfix is now available from Microsoft. However, it is intended to correct only the problem that is described in this article. Apply it only to systems that are experiencing this specific problem. This hotfix may receive additional testing. Therefore, if you are not severely affected by this problem, we recommend that you wait for the next Visual Studio 2005 service pack that contains this hotfix.

Download the Hotfix here: http://connect.microsoft.com/VisualStudio/Downloads/DownloadDetails.aspx?DownloadID=7250

Windows Vista: The Definitive Guide

Title: Windows Vista: The Definitive Guide
Author: William R. Stanek
First Edition: February 2007
ISBN 10: 0-596-52800-0
ISBN 13: 9780596528003
Pages: 942




Whether you're a beginner, power user, or seasoned professional, Windows Vista: The Definitive Guide has everything you need to customize the operating system, master your digital media, manage your data, and maintain your computer -- regardless of which Windows Vista edition you're using.

Why this book and not some other resource? Bestselling author and Windows expert William Stanek doesn't just teach you the steps you need to follow, he also tells you how features work, why they work, and how you can customize them to meet your needs. You'll learn how to squeeze out every last bit of power out of Windows Vista, and how to make the most out of its features and programs, including how to:

• Set up, customize and tune Windows Vista - Optimize its appearance and performance; install, configure and maintain software; customize your hardware; and install printers, scanners and faxes


• Manage your files - Search your computer more efficiently; secure your files and data; share and collaborate; and get the most out of accessories such as the Mobility Center


• Master your digital media - Create media libraries with Media Player; manage digital pictures and videos with Photo Gallery; make DVDs with DVD Maker; and create movies with Movie Maker


• Get connected and start networking - Set up a home or small-office network; learn to use Windows Mail, Calendar, and Meeting Space; conquer Internet Explorer 7; and master on-the-go networking


• Protect your computer - Keep your family safe while on the Internet; set up parental controls and content ratings; navigate the computer security maze; configure Windows Vista's security features


• Manage and support Windows Vista systems - Deal with user accounts, disks and drives; handle routine maintenance and troubleshooting; and resolve advanced support and recovery issues


• Learn advanced tips & techniques - Manage the Windows boot environment, explore Group Policy, discover keyboard shortcuts, and much more

Table of Contents



Preface
Part I. Setting Up, Customizing, and Tuning Windows Vista
1. Getting Started with Windows Vista
Getting to Know Windows Vista
Navigating Windows Vista Editions
Starting and Using Windows Vista
Working with Windows Vista
Logging On, Switching, Locking, Logging Off, and Shutting Down

2. Optimizing Windows Vista's Interface
Customizing Windows Vista's Desktop
Using Gadgets and Windows Sidebar
Customizing Menus and the Control Panel

3. Fine-Tuning Windows Vista's Appearance and Performance
Balancing Appearance and Performance
Understanding User Account Control and Its Impact on Performance
Understanding Windows Vista Personalization
Personalizing Windows Vista
Optimizing Performance

4. Installing, Configuring, and Maintaining Software
Software Installation: What's Changed
Software Installation: What You Need to Know
Installing and Running Your Software
Managing Software Once It's Installed

5. Customizing Your Computer's Hardware Devices
Hardware Installation: What's Changed
Hardware Installation: What You Need to Know
Learning About Your Computer's Hardware Devices
Customizing Your Computer's Input Devices, Regional Settings, and Date/Time
Installing and Managing Hardware

Part II. Mastering Your Data and Digital Media
6. Mastering Windows Explorer and Searching Your Computer

Windows Explorer: What's Changed
Navigating Your Computer with the Address Bar
Searching Your Computer
Indexing Your Computer for Faster Searches

7. Navigating the Web with Internet Explorer 7
Getting Started with Internet Explorer 7
Getting Around the Web and Using Internet Explorer 7
Protecting Your Computer While Browsing

8. Creating Your Media Library with Windows Media Player
Getting into Your Multimedia
Playing Your Media
Building Your Media Library

9. Capturing and Managing Your Digital Pictures and Videos
Getting Started with Windows Photo Gallery
Organizing Your Gallery
Building Your Photo and Video Gallery
Sharing Your Photo and Video Gallery

10. Making Video DVDs and Movies
Creating Video DVDs with Windows DVD Maker
Creating Movies with Windows Movie Maker

11. Securing and Sharing Your Data
Securing Your Data
Controlling Access to Your Data
Sharing Your Data

12. Setting Up Printers, Scanners, and Fax Machines
Installing Printers, Scanners, and Fax Machines
Sharing Printers, Scanners, and Fax Machines
Configuring Printer, Scanner, and Fax Machine Properties
Managing Print, Fax, and Scan Jobs

13. Making the Most of Your Computer's Accessories
Capturing Screens and Windows with the Snipping Tool
Getting Your Computer to Listen
Using Laptop and Tablet PC Extras
Making Your Computer More Accessible

Part III. Connecting and Networking
14. Setting Up Your Network
Understanding Home and Small-Business Networks
Mapping Your Networking Infrastructure
Networking with TCP/IP
Advanced Networking Concepts
Troubleshooting Common Problems on Small Networks

15. Protecting Your Computer with Windows Defender and Windows Firewall
Navigating the Computer Security Maze
Introducing the Windows Security Center
Using Windows Defender
Working with the Windows Firewall

16. Using Windows Mail, Calendars, and Contacts
Using Windows Mail
Using Windows Contacts
Using Windows Calendar
Using Windows Meeting Space

17. Mastering Dial-Up, Broadband, and On-the-Go Networking
Configuring Dial-Up, Broadband, and On-the-Go Networking
Wireless Networking

Part IV. Managing and Supporting Windows Vista
18. Managing User Accounts and Parental Controls
Managing Access to Your Computer
Managing Your User Account
Managing Access Permissions with Group Accounts
Keeping Your Family Safe While Using Your Computer

19. Managing Disks and Drives
Configuring Disks and Drives
Preparing Disks for Use
Using Compression and Encryption

20. Handling Routine Maintenance and Troubleshooting
Maintaining Your System Configuration
General Maintenance Tools
Scheduling Maintenance Tasks

21. Getting Help and Handling Advanced Support Issues
Detecting and Resolving Computer Problems
Creating Backups and Preparing for Problems
Recovering After a Crash or Other Problem
Getting Help and Giving Others Assistance
Troubleshooting Windows Vista Programs and Features

Part V. Advanced Tips and Techniques
22. Installing and Running Windows Vista
Comparing Windows Vista Features and Versions
Installing Windows Vista
Upgrading Your Windows Vista Edition

23. Exploring the Windows Boot Environment
Introducing the Windows Vista Boot Environment
Working with Boot Configuration Data
Managing the BCD Data Store
Managing the Boot Sector for Hard Disk Partitions

24. Understanding Windows Vista Security Changes
Identifying Password Policy Changes
Identifying User Rights Assignment Changes
Identifying Security Options Changes

25. Mastering Windows Media Center
Understanding Windows Media Center Requirements
Selecting the Correct Hardware for Windows Media Center
Installing and Configuring Windows Media Center Using the Wizard
Navigating Windows Media Center
Fine-Tuning the Settings for Windows Media Center
Troubleshooting Problems with Windows Media Center

26. Using Group Policy with Windows Vista
Exploring Group Policy in Windows Vista
Working with Multiple Local Group Policy Objects
Updating Active Directory Group Policy Objects for Windows Vista

27. Navigating Windows Vista Policy Changes
Navigating Windows Vista Policy Changes

28. Navigating Internet Explorer 7 Policies
Getting Started with Internet Explorer 7 Policy Settings
Using Internet Explorer 7 Policy Settings

29. Desktop Tips and Tricks with Keyboard Shortcuts
Using and Creating Keyboard Shortcuts
Keyboard Shortcuts for Windows Vista
Keyboard Shortcuts for Windows Explorer and Windows Sidebar
Keyboard Shortcuts for Windows Photo Gallery
Keyboard Shortcuts for Windows Media Center
Keyboard Shortcuts for Windows Media Player
Keyboard Shortcuts for Internet Explorer 7
Keyboard Shortcuts for Windows Movie Maker

Index

Sample Chapter 4: Installing, Configuring, and Maintaining Software

Amazon Link: Windows Vista: The Definitive Guide