Kurt Shintaku's Blog

Awwyeah.  Now you can get the best of MSN content designed for your mobile handset.

Introducing the new MSN Mobile.

Starting today, you can browse the new MSN Mobile Portal Beta. This newly designed portal includes content from MSNBC, FOX Sports, MSN Entertainment, Money and Weather. You can also get Live Local, Live Mail and last but not least up to minute Movie listings and show times. The new experience on MSN is optimized to take advantage of the best experience that your handset supports to provide the richest content experience possible.

To get started, just go to http://beta.mobile.msn.com. This newly designed companion site tells you all about the new MSN Mobile Beta and makes it easy for you to select your device and mobile operator to see what services and content works on your phone. It also allows you to quickly send an SMS message to your phone that contains the URL to MSN Mobile. If you already have MSN mobile bookmarked on your handset, just click on the link called “New! MSN.com Beta”.

WEB:  http://beta.mobile.msn.com

There’s an issue using Foldershare with Windows Vista.

Microsoft Foldershare is software that works in tandem with a web service backend that allows you to securely synchronize file folders between multiple machines peer-to-peer without storing it on a server.  It’s free & extremely useful for:

• Synchronizing Internet Explorer favorites, cookies, & history across all your computers
• Synchronizing My Documents folders across all your computers
• Synchronizing My Music or My Videos across all (or specific) computers
• Synchronizing your Outlook .PST file across multiple computers

The problem is that Windows Vista doesn’t recognize the synchronization configuration of existing file folders.   The workaround is to “remove file syncs and uninstall and reinstall and create new file syncs”.

Walla.  Foldershare works again.

Introduction to Microsoft System Center Operations Manager 2007 – Hands-On Workshop
January 30, 2007, Los Angeles, CA

You are invited to attend a 1-day technical introduction designed to deliver practical, hands-on information about managing your infrastructure with Microsoft’s System Center Operations Manager 2007. This workshop will be led by a Microsoft Management Technical Specialist covering the following topics:

• Introduction to System Center Operations Manager 2007
• Common Monitoring Scenarios
• Monitoring more than Microsoft
• Hands on Labs

With this new release, Operations Manager will:

• Proactively manage business critical IT services, including distributed applications, the supporting infrastructure and hardware, and end-user service delivery.
• Reduce the complexities of managing your IT environment by providing a monitoring solution that is designed with ease of use in mind.
• Provide a highly reliable infrastructure by leveraging Windows Server and SQL 2005 clustering for high availability and through agents that automatically failover to a secondary management server if connectivity to the primary server is lost.
• Include management packs with prescriptive knowledge developed by the application and OS development teams at Microsoft and verified in production deployments to improve monitoring, troubleshooting, and problem resolution for more than 50 Microsoft applications and Windows Server components.

Audience:
This hands-on lab is for IT Professionals in job roles like infrastructure specialists, network administrators, directory administrators, management specialists, storage and data administrators and client support. This technical hands-on workshop is limited to 50 attendees.

Date: January 30, 2007

Time: 9:00 AM – 4:30 PM
Registration begins at 8:30 AM

Location
Microsoft Corporation
333 South Grand Avenue
Suite 3300
Los Angeles, Ca. 90071
(Breakfast, lunch and parking included)

Registration:
Please RSVP for this “invitation only” event, Click Here to RSVP. Call 1.877.MSEVENT (877.673.8366) or visit http://msevents.microsoft.com/ and search on Event Code 1032320132.

Introduction to Microsoft Systems Management Server – Hands-On Workshop
January 31, 2007, Los Angeles, CA

You are invited to attend a 1-day seminar designed to deliver practical, hands-on information about Microsoft’s Systems Management Server (SMS). Attendees will learn how to manage the ongoing operations of an SMS infrastructure. This workshop will be led by Microsoft’s Management Technical Specialist covering the following topics:

• Introduction to Systems Management Server
• Managing more than Microsoft in your environment
• Lifecycle management (Asset Management)
• Microsoft System Center: Vision and Roadmap
• First Look: Configuration Manager 2007
• Hands-on Labs

We will also share best practices, methodologies and tools that will assist in the planning and implementation of a Microsoft SMS 2003 solution.

Audience:
This course is intended for SMS Administrators and Systems Integrators who are responsible for configuring and managing one or more SMS sites and all supporting systems. This technical hands-on workshop is limited to 50 attendees.

Date: January 31, 2007

Time: 8:30 a.m. – 4:30 p.m.

Location:
Microsoft Corporation
333 South Grand Avenue
Suite 3300
Los Angeles, Ca. 90071
(Lunch and parking will be provided)

Registration:
Please RSVP for this “invitation-only” event, Click Here to RSVP.  Call 1.877.MSEVENT (877.673.8366) or visit http://msevents.microsoft.com/ and search on Event Code: 1032320133.

Do you have a J2ME (Java) capable cell phone?
Do you have a Windows Mobile based phone?

 Windows Live Search for Mobile Phones released to the web (RTW) last night and is available for download from http://wls.live.com/.  

Windows Live Search allows the user to access Live Local through an application interface rather than the Web-based client. It is split up into four separate components: a categorical based search, a mapping function, driving directions, and traffic information.

The client pulls maps — both the standard and aerial type — from Microsoft’s main servers. The user can click and drag the map, and the application would download the additional maps needed automatically. Users can also zoom in and out of maps as needed.

Here’s a quick list of the things about Windows Live Search on WINDOWS MOBILE that I find cool: 

• GPS:  It’s GPS enabled!  If you have a GPS on your phone, it’ll take advantage of it immediately!
• FULL ANIMATION:  All map zooms and transition movement slides smoothly just like the desktop version!
• UPDATES:  It automatically tells you when a better version is available for installation over the web!
• CLICK-TO-CALL:  If you find a restaurant in the directory, you can click on the phone number to have it call the restaurant! (Then immediately get directions to the restaurant)
• STORE-ON-FLASH:  Store the satellite images on your SDFlash card so that you don’t consume all your memory on the device!

Real-time Traffic, Zoom-in on Hybrid/Satellite maps, & view side streets

Point-to-point Directions including a map with GPS integration… just click for the next turn!

Full directory of restaurants, services, etc. and the ability to get directions or click-to-call!

Download instructions and news of SMS and Browser based interfaces here: 
http://virtualearth.spaces.live.com/Blog/cns!2BBC66E99FDCDB98!7819.entry

—————————–

Here’s what Gizmodo has to say about it:

Windows Live Search For Mobile vs. Google Maps Mobile

Microsoft’s Windows Live Search for Mobiles just went live last night, and we took it for a spin, comparing it to Google Maps for Mobile, which has traffic, maps local business searches and directions as well.

Windows Live Search runs on both J2ME (Java) phones and on Windows Mobile phones, whereas Google Maps only works on J2ME phones.

So which is better? Without a doubt, Microsoft’s was the winner.

This matchup could have been a bit uneven. We were running WLS on a Windows Mobile phone, seeing as the Windows Live Search had a "native-app" feel, because it was a native app. Google Maps on Java ran like Java always does. Painfully.

http://www.gizmodo.com/gadgets/smartphones/windows-live-search-for-mobile-vs-google-maps-mobile-218467.php

Well, the Inquirer, bastion of professional journalism it is <smirk>, managed to create a flurry of panic with their latest supposed "scoop" on the publication of Windows Vista Enterprise on Microsoft’s Volume Licensing Services website (MVLS).

Microsoft screws up on Vista. Again
No! Surely some mistake!
By Rob Squires: Tuesday 28 November 2006, 23:57

SOFTWARE AND hardware and networking and console firm Microsoft seems to have issued the wrong release of Windows Vista Business & Enterprise Editions to its Volume Licence Customers.
From the original release earlier this month, there were problems that arose with the install DVD as well as the installed versions of Vista.
A note on the web site said: "Reinstall Required: If you downloaded Windows Vista Business 32 Bit in English before November 22, 2006, please download and reinstall the updated version. We apologize for any inconvenience.."
http://www.theinquirer.net/default.aspx?article=36022

The net-net is that Windows Vista Enterprise Edition is JUST FINE on the MVLS web site, which is the version my customers are concerned about.  The Windows Vista Enterprise downloadable software from the website was not retracted.  If you do a search for it through the MVLS website (assuming you have access to it) you’ll find it show up.

Here’s the official response from HQ:

Recently it has been reported that Microsoft Corp. issued an incorrect version of Windows Vista Business & Enterprise editions to its customers with Volume Licensing agreements on the secure Microsoft Volume Licensing Services website.  The problem was limited to the Windows Vista Business in English image posted to the new download website for Open & Open Value customers prior to November 22, 2006. Only a very small number of those customers were impacted by downloading this image and the problem was resolved as soon as it was discovered.  The vast majority of customers utilizing Microsoft’s download capability are Enterprise Agreement and Select customers; neither of those groups were affected by the error.

Microsoft Volume Licensing Select and Enterprise customers can continue to download Windows Vista Business in English images from the Microsoft Volume Licensing Services website with no issues.  The Windows Vista Enterprise and other Windows Vista images available through volume licensing were NOT impacted; and are the highest quality and most tested commercial software products ever, due to unprecedented partnership and feedback between Microsoft and its customers.

How to reboot your Zune:
Hold down the "Back" and "Up" buttons simultaneously for a few seconds.

Wait. I know it’s a Microsoft product <smirk> but why would I need to reboot my Zune?
When the device is first taken out of the box, I’ve seen a situation (only once mind you) in which the device basically froze.  It wouldn’t connect via USB, and it couldn’t be recognized by the Zune software.  The issue was that the Zune was connected to either a VERY highly powered USB 2.0 port which got it garbled for a minute, or that the device was connected before the Zune software had been installed.  Either way, after the reboot, everything worked like a charm.  This was the only time I’ve ever had to reboot a Zune.

How do I make my Zune a Portable Hard Drive?
Start by disconnecting your Zune from your PC’s USB connection and exit the Zune Software.

1. Open the registry (run REGEDT32.EXE) and go to HKEY_LOCAL_MACHINESystemControlSet001EnumUSB
2. Within this part of the hive, look for the key "PortableDeviceNameSpace" in
   Vid_####&Pid_############_-_########_-_########_-_########Device Parameters

   This may sound confusing however it’s actually quite simple… just a little laborious.  Look through each of the subkeys under "USB" named "Vid_####&Pid_####" for a key called "########_-_########_-_########_-_########".  (Each # represents a random character forming a unique identifier that represents your Zune player.  This should be relatively easy because it’s the longest subkey name under the "USB" key.)  Note:  The fastest way to parse through all the keys under "USB" is to start from the BOTTOM of the subkey list of "USB" and press the "right arrow" to expand each key named "Vid_####&Pid_####".  If you don’t find the right subkey, simply press the "up arrow" to move up one key.  Repeat until you see the subkey called:  "########_-_########_-_########_-_########". 

3. Change the following values:
   – EnableLegacySupport to 1
   – PortableDeviceNameSpaceExcludeFromShell to 0
   – ShowInShell to 1
4. Close the registry editor.

The next time you plug in your Zune, the Zune software should kick in and if you go to My Computer, your Zune should show up as a Portable Device which will allow you to drag & drop content into it and navigate it as an external hard drive.

You’ll also notice that sync-ed .MP3 & .WMA music and .WMV videos are easily accessible through File Explorer through paths like "My ComputerKurt’s ZuneStorageMusicLinkin ParkHybrid theoryLinkin Park – One Step Closer.wma"

How to update the firmware on your Zune to "Zune firmware version 1.1":
The firmware update enables Zune-to-Zune Wireless sharing and kicks the performance up a notch.  Wireless is on by default, and the wireless setting gets enabled with this upgrade.  To get it going all you have to do is connect your device to your workstation or laptop while connected to the Internet.  It will download the firmware update and do all the work for you.  The update process will take about 90 seconds.

How to download the Zune Product Guide:
http://download.microsoft.com/download/8/9/4/89461EE8-1B9F-44B8-AA16-31C978E18F9E/ZuneDevice.pdf

How to download the Zune User Manuals:
http://www.zune.net/en-us/support/resources/downloadmanuals.htm

How to Stream Zune Content to Your Xbox 360:
This is set up during the installation process of the Zune software.  A wizard screen appears that states, "Zune works with Xbox 360.  Stream music, videos, and pictures from the Zune software to all consoles on your network.

Where’s the Zune Blog?
This is the blog of the Zune Development team:  http://zuneinsider.com/

Basically, the Zune portable media player is not exposed by default as a hard drive in My Computer.  Here’s how to get it to do so using this quick reg hack.

Start by disconnecting your Zune from your PC’s USB connection and exit the Zune Software.

1. Open the registry (run REGEDT32.EXE) and go to HKEY_LOCAL_MACHINESystemControlSet001EnumUSB
2. Within this part of the hive, look for the key "PortableDeviceNameSpace" in
   Vid_####&Pid_############_-_########_-_########_-_########Device Parameters

   This may sound confusing however it’s actually quite simple… just a little laborious.  Look through each of the subkeys under "USB" named "Vid_####&Pid_####" for a key called "########_-_########_-_########_-_########".  (Each # represents a random character forming a unique identifier that represents your Zune player.  This should be relatively easy because it’s the longest subkey name under the "USB" key.)  Note:  The fastest way to parse through all the keys under "USB" is to start from the BOTTOM of the subkey list of "USB" and press the "right arrow" to expand each key named "Vid_####&Pid_####".  If you don’t find the right subkey, simply press the "up arrow" to move up one key.  Repeat until you see the subkey called:  "########_-_########_-_########_-_########". 

3. Change the following values:
   – EnableLegacySupport to 1
   – PortableDeviceNameSpaceExcludeFromShell to 0
   – ShowInShell to 1
4. Close the registry editor.

The next time you plug in your Zune, the Zune software should kick in and if you go to My Computer, your Zune should show up as a Portable Device which will allow you to drag & drop content into it and navigate it as an external hard drive.

You’ll also notice that sync-ed .MP3 & .WMA music and .WMV videos are easily accessible through File Explorer through paths like "My ComputerKurt’s ZuneStorageMusicLinkin ParkHybrid theoryLinkin Park – One Step Closer.wma"

…

[taken from Phaleux.com]

Have you ever lost the local administrator password on a workstation or server?  Or maybe just a particular local user account that you really need on a machine?

There’s a service out there that is FREE that will return the actual password of a local account on your workstation/server on the basis of a hash dump from the local Security Account Management (SAM) database.

Note that this is for LOCAL accounts as in accounts that are created on the local machine that exist no where else and are not recognized by any other system.  This does not apply to domain accounts or Active Directory network-based accounts.  (For those that don’t understand why this doesn’t work for network-based accounts, may I recommend you read the book "Windows Security" by Microsoft Press for the 101 course on password storage?)

The service is free, relatively simple, and works on any machine that has not used Syskey to further protect the machine’s local accounts database.

1. Create a bootable floppy or a bootable CDROM using a downloadable file from the site.
2. Boot up the system with the media and let it dump the SAM hash into a file stored on the floppy.  If you’re using the CDROM method, some text will appear on the screen and you’ll have to copy about 200 characters worth of text into a text box on web site to submit the content.  (Translation:  The floppy is a better solution)
3. Upload the file or the text to the site, give them your email, and wait 24 hours.  The password should appear in your inbox.  If you want, you can give them $20 and they’ll do it in minutes.

How To Protect Your Workstation from this:
So, wait… how do I stop people from being able to do this?  Well, there’s some really simple ways:

1. Don’t let anyone have physical access to your machine.  Frankly, if someone can get at your machine, they can remove the hard drive.  They can boot up from another form of media.  They can do anything they want.  So don’t let that happen.
2. If you have a laptop, and can’t do that and you aren’t using Windows Vista, well, the alternative is to use Syskey which will doubly protect the database that secures the accounts on your machine with 128-bit key on top of the existing encryption.  More information on how to do this is available here:  http://support.microsoft.com/kb/310105/

Note to EFS users:
First of all, don’t panic.  The fact that the local administrator password is obtainable through simple means does not mean that EFS encrypted files on an NTFS drive is crackable. 

• USE ACTIVE DIRECTORY ACCOUNTS:
  What it does mean is that if your machine is on a Active Directory domain, be sure to be using domain accounts as the keyed accounts that are used against EFS encrypted files and directories.  For recovery, it’s also pretty damned important that your company establish a Public Key Infrastructure (PKI), meaning at least one Certificate Service registered to the Active Directory of the network.  Without a PKI in place, managing "recovery accounts" (accounts used to access encypted data in the event a person’s account is deleted) is a real chore if not an impossibility.
• DON’T USE LOCAL ACCOUNTS, OR AT LEAST USE SYSKEY
  It also means that if you don’t have an Active Directory-enabled network, and your machine is "isolated", EFS encryption isn’t gonna help you a whole lot because the local administrator account is the "recovery account" and should be able to access any EFS encrypted data on the system regardless of what local account was used.  (Again, network/domain accounts do not apply to this issue and local administrator accounts can NOT be used to recover EFS files that were encrypted using domain account users)
  If you have to use a local account for whatever reason, be sure to apply Syskey to your workstation by reading about it here:  http://support.microsoft.com/kb/310105/

WEBSITE:  http://www.loginrecovery.com/

From the "Did you guys even test it? file:
XBox Video Marketplace downloads WILL stream and allow you to play the video back once enough has been "buffered" or "cached" up.

Gizmodo incorrectly states that when you’ve purchased a TV episode or a Movie from the Video Marketplace that you "have to download the show in its entirety" and that’s not true at all. If they’d really tested the service they’d know this.

When you’ve selected a show, purchased it, and start a download, the content will start to get buffered onto your Xbox. Depending upon your Internet connection speed, your actual download rate from the datacenter where the video resides, how long the show actually is, and its quality (SD vs HD), you will get a notification pop up on the screen that reads "TITLEGOESHERE is Ready To Play" at the bottom of the screen whenever enough of the movie or episode has been "buffered".

Again, it does NOT have to be completely downloaded to start watching it. Everything is encoded in Windows Media… so of course it streams!

EXAMPLE: For a 10 minute standard definition clip of adultSWIM’s "Robot Chicken" to be downloaded over a 3MBit DSL connection in Los Angeles (120MB), your Xbox wll display a "Robot Chicken is Ready to Play!" notification in the middle of your game of Gears of War or whatever you happen to be doing once the download is about 12%-15% complete… or about 15-20 seconds after initiating the purchase.

The faster your download the sooner you’ll be able to start playing your video purchase or rental!