HOWZAT

Q I have the free AVG antivirus program, but frequently have to restart my computer after downloading the latest updates. Can I stop this happening?

Dennis Marsh, via e-mail

A The latest version of AVG (free.grisoft.com/doc/I+need+help) automatically updates itself. I have it set to start running on my computer early in the morning before I wake up, and it will download any antivirus updates it needs, install them and run a virus scan. Check your Update Manager settings, as you shouldn’t need to restart the computer at all — but do not switch off the updating function, as the program then becomes almost worthless.

PROFESSIONAL PATH

Q I am about to replace my old home computer with a new Windows XP model. Should I go for XP Home or Professional?

Tony Johnson, via e-mail

A Go for XP Professional, if only because it is geared to office use and therefore incorporates security features and file-access controls that are missing from the Home version. For instance, you can install a software lock that limits what other people can install on your machine’s hard disk. The fact that the Home version does not have multiple processor support also worries me, as it means that you are limited in your upgrade choices should you want to migrate to a beefier machine in the future. For more information on this topic, visit tinyurl.com/543rd.

AUDIO DYNAMITE

Q Is there any way that I can copy parts of my DVD soundtracks to my computer?

Warren Spencer, via e-mail

A The simplest option is to buy a copy of the DVD Audio Extractor (£16 from www.castudio.org/dvdaudioextractor). This software enables you to create audio in MP3, WAV or the excellent Vorbis formats, and copes with all the multichannel audio shenanigans of modern DVDs. There is a 30-day fully working free trial at the site, so you can see whether it meets your needs before you buy.

dontpanic@sunday-times.co.uk

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