A Volume on the Hard Disk is Corrupted

Strange error messages, unusual sounds, a hard disk that sounds like its churning inside the computer case may all be signs of a corrupted hard disk. You may receive an error message that states: A volume on the hard disk is corrupted, file is corrupted or data is unreadable. These error messages are the computer’s way of telling you that something just isn’t right on the inside.

Maintaining the integrity of your hard disk is very important for a good working system. We sometimes just take for granted that things are going to work without us having to maintain them. Everything needs some level of maintenance; so, realistically speaking, it is not unreasonable to expect that we will have to do some routine maintenance on the computer systems that work so hard for us every day.

A hard disk problem can be serious. The hard drive is what makes everything work. The good news is that not all errors that show themselves as hard disk errors are because of a problem with the disk itself. Rather, these errors may be due to external factors, such as corrupted files or a virus, that are affecting the hard disk. These external factors will cause an error to appear, indicating that there is a problem, not with the hard disk, but because of other factors causing the disk not to work properly. Regardless of the cause of the problem, there needs to be some resolution and repair.

To remove simple errors that can be causing issues with your hard disk:

• Scan your system for viruses and remove potentially harmful files. Make sure you have an up to date, reputable anti-virus program on your system. If you do not, you should get one and use it frequently.
• Clean your disk using the disk cleanup utility.

Disk Cleanup

For Windows based programs, disk cleanup can be performed in the following way. Click Start > Programs (All Programs) > Accessories > System Tools > Disk Cleanup. For Apple users, disk cleanup is performed in basically the same way. The disk cleanup utility is located in the Applications folder under Utilities, or you can go to the Disk Utility Help menu to identify how to perform this disk cleanup.

The disk cleanup will then provide an analysis of your disk space and you can follow any additional instructions to clean each of the various categories of files. This doesn’t take long and you will notice an improvement of the performance of your system. If you so choose, you can delete files that you are no longer using by also following the prompts to delete. Be careful not to delete files if you do not know what they do, this could interrupt your system if these files are attached to your operating system.

The disk utility cleanup not only frees up space but it also automatically repairs the startup disk volume that may be having issues. This process is a multipurpose fix that can work wonders for your system function.

My Hyperlink Isn’t Working

A hyperlink is a convenient shortcut to another location or file. Usually found in an e-mail, web page or document, people insert hyperlinks to allow the reader to quickly be directed to another location by clicking the link. It is a direct connection from one document to a website or another document.

Hyperlinks are easy and convenient to use because they eliminate several steps that are usually needed to get from one place to another. Without hyperlinks, readers would have to close or minimize the document and physically type in another address to get to a different location.

Hyperlinks are one of those things that can easily be taken for granted. When an error occurs, the user realizes just how handy they are. The most obvious sign that there is a problem with a hyperlink is when nothing happens when you click on it or some type of error code pops up.

It is difficult to determine the real reason why hyperlinks suddenly stop working. The following are just some possible reasons why clicking a hyperlink may not work:

• Installing Windows updates or add ons,
• Installing or uninstalling browsers,
• Installing plug ins or add ins,
• Using Windows registry cleaners, and
• The person who sent the link to you may have made a typing error.

First eliminate if the problem is a typo by checking other links or contacting the person who sent the link to you. This is usually the most common cause of a broken hyperlink, and the easiest to fix. If this is the culprit, consider yourself lucky and move on. If it is not a typo, it is still possible to fix a broken hyperlink by trying a few troubleshooting options.

If one of the following options works, it is not necessary to proceed to the next option, as you have found the solution. If one option does not provide results, move on to the next until you have solved your problem.

Reset your Browser Default to Internet Explorer

You should do this even if you plan to later use another browser such as Firefox. To reset your browser take the following steps:

• Open Internet Explorer.
• Click on the Tools menu from the toolbar.
• Select Internet Options.
• Click on the Programs tab.
• Click the Make Default button.
• Click OK.
• Go back and test the hyperlink to see if this has fixed the problem.

Re-register Windows DLL Files

DLL stands for Dynamic Link Library and is the term used to describe the common files that are created and shared between the different applications used to perform common tasks such as opening a file or hyperlink. If a DLL file becomes corrupted, it will prevent links from opening properly.

The shell32.dll is the DLL file that stores information and is used to open files and web pages. If you are having difficulties opening hyperlinks, it will not hurt to re-register this file. To do this, you need to do the following:

• Close any open programs.
• Click Start and Run. To open the Run dialog box in Windows 7 and Vista, you need to press the Windows logo key on your keyboard and the R button at the same time.
• Beside Open, type regsvr32 shell32.dll.
• Click the OK button.
• The prompt should then tell you that the process was successful.
• You may need to restart Windows for the registration of the dll file to take effect.

Hopefully one of these three options should fix the problem with a broken hyperlink. If the problem persists, you should contact your system administrator for further assistance.

DNS Server Errors

DNS stands for Domain Name System, which is a system of servers that are located in the Internet universe that translate domain names into Internet Protocol or (IP). This system is what handles Internet connections, as well as the routing of e-mail messages.

When you sign up with an Internet Service Provider (ISP), you will be told to set your DNS servers. There are typically two servers that provide a domain name for an address that will allow you to communicate with the Internet. A DNS server error message may surface if there are issues with the connection to the web page you are trying to view. You can attempt to reload the current page by clicking on the reload button to see if this resolves the issue. The error message may just be a quick glitch that will only take a click of the reload button to resolve. If this remedies the issue, consider yourself lucky.

A DNS error may occur because the servers are not well maintained or have bugs or errors that then trickle down to you, the user. Errors and problems occur with domain names and connections just as errors and problems occur with your computer system. If you run into these issues, it is a possible sign of DNS problems. These problems may not be something that you can correct, but rather may be issues with the ISP. If the issue is due to the ISP, it will probably be resolved in a short time. Be patient and continue to try to access the page or contact the provider. If you continue to be met with the same issue, you can take steps to manually replace your DNS server.

Resetting your DNS server is the best option to avoid future issues. Before changing your DNS settings, you should write down your current DNS server address in the event that you want to return to these settings at a later time. These instructions for resetting or replacing your DNS server are specifically for Windows users only:

• Click Start.
• Select Control Panel.
• Click on Network Connections or Wireless Network Settings if you are connected wirelessly.
• Click on Local Area Connection or Wireless Network Settings depending on the connection you are having trouble with.
• Click Properties and highlight Internet Protocol.
• Click Properties again and check the box beside the Obtain DNS server automatically selection. If you wish to change this and manually insert your own DNS server, you can consult with your Internet Service Provider to obtain a different address.
• Click the OK button.
• Click Close twice.
• Close the Network Connection box.
• Test your new settings by trying to access a website.

Changing, resetting or replacing your DNS server does not have to be forever. You can follow the same instructions to change from a new server back to your old settings should you choose. Chances are, if you are having trouble connecting, it may be an issue with the DNS. You shouldn’t be afraid to change this when and if necessary. Your Internet Service Provider can also assist you with any issues you may have troubleshooting through connection problems.

Fatal Exception Errors

Some errors are so minor that they can be compared to a button falling off of your coat. It isn’t exactly the end of the world, but it is an inconvenience. You have choices: you can sew the button back on or you can get a new coat. For most of us, getting a new coat would be far more expensive than just grabbing a needle and thread and fixing the button. The same concept is true with many of the errors we encounter with our computers. Most errors, even ones that claim to be FATAL, are relatively minor and can be fixed with much less pain than dishing out hundreds of dollars for a new computer.

Fatal exception errors are Windows-based errors. The codes following the term fatal exception error generally communicate the specific error that has occurred by listing a sequence of letters and numbers after the words. A fatal error may state one of following phrases after it:

• Attempts to access to an illegal instruction have occurred.
• An invalid code or data has attempted to be accessed.
• You have insufficient privileges to continue with the operation you are attempting.

The reasons these errors are called exception errors is because when these circumstances arise, the program returns an exception to the computer’s operating system that prompts an error code known as the fatal exception error. The series of letters and numbers after the message is an actual address where the exception occurred. This address provides the information for the error.

There are many conditions that can cause a fatal exception error message, which means that there are as many solutions as there are errors. Until you get the error and its proper address, it can be difficult to provide specific instructions to troubleshoot through the situation. Common causes for the fatal exception error include:

• Settings being wrong,
• Conflicting drivers, and
• Errors with installed programs.

Clean booting your computer is the best first step to solving the issue of fatal exception errors. It is difficult to provide step by step instructions on a clean boot because the instructions vary depending on which Windows operating system is installed on the computer. Regardless of the version, there is the option to perform a clean boot on all Windows-based systems.

This is generally the same until you get to the System Configuration tab. By going to Start, Programs, Accessories and then System Tools you will come to the next step of the process. Under the System Tools menu, a System Information command will lead to the Systems Configuration tab.

Performing this task is a preventative measure. It will not only eliminate fatal exception errors, but may prevent other errors that have been sitting dormant just waiting to surface.

iPod Errors

Those who are tuned in to the world of electronics know that the iPod is a popular device that plays music through digital technology. Since the first iPod was introduced by Apple in 2001, several other more advanced models have been introduced to the market. Each model varies in data storage and other capabilities. The classic model uses an internal hard drive to store media for use while the newer models use flash memory systems to store the media because they are smaller in size and this flash technology allows them more storage capacity.

We know by now that using a computer means dealing with error codes regardless of whether your use is to surf the internet or download music. The iPod uses a popular software package called iTunes to transfer music from the computer to the device. Electronic devices have their fair share of error codes; a slightly different set of numbers and letters that let you know when your device just isn’t functioning properly.

The reality is that although the error codes read differently, they are basically communicating a malfunction in the system to the user and looking to the user to fix this to allow the program to continue running properly. The following are a two of the most common errors that will be displayed on the LCD screen if an iPod is malfunctioning:

1. The sad faced icon. This usually means that there is an issue or a symptom that is causing the iPod to not be recognized in either iTunes or Windows. Solution: Ensure that you have the most up-to-date software installed on both your iPod and your computer. Reinstalling or updating the software should remedy the issue.


2. The iPod displays an exclamation point, which usually indicates a connection problem. Solution: Charge your battery by connecting your iPod to your computer. Look to see if the exclamation point changes to a lightning bolt icon. This icon indicates that the battery is charging. If the exclamation point still remains after the battery charge, the iPod may be locked up. Try resetting it. If charging or resetting does not correct the issue, you may have to obtain service from a technician.

As always, any error that cannot be fixed using the common troubleshooting techniques may be a sign of a bigger issue and should be checked out by a trained technician.

Fatal Error 1603

The word fatal usually puts people into a panic, due to the fact that when we use or hear the word fatal it is not in combination with good news in real life or in the computer world. Fatal errors can often have fatal consequences to your system if they are not addressed.

When you are attempting to run or install an application on your computer, you may receive one of many types of fatal error messages. Two very common fatal error messages are: Fatal Error 1603: Occurred during Installation, and Error 1603: General Windows Installer Engine Error. Increase Disk Space requirement in Setup.ini and try again. These error messages are basically telling you that you don’t have enough space to install or run an application.

The lack of disk space for the size of the application you are attempting to use is the most common reason for Fatal Error 1603. You can check to see if you have enough room on your hard drive by checking the amount of free and used disk space. Start by double clicking on My Computer (Computer in Windows 7). Right click the drive where you are attempting to install the program and select Properties. Click on the General tab and check the boxes where free space is indicated. Make sure that you have enough free space to install the program. As a general rule; double the amount of space that the software indicates is necessary for installation to determine how much you will need to successfully install it.

If you realize after checking that you do not have enough space, you can take one of the following quick and simple steps to increase your disk space:

• Empty your recycle bin. You would be surprised how much space is used up by the files sitting in the recycle bin. Although you have deleted them from your computer, by sitting in the recycle bin, they are still on your computer somewhere.
• Remove installed programs that you are not using. The best way to do this is to uninstall them through Control Panel and clicking Add Remove Programs or Programs and Features (in Windows 7). Select the programs you want to uninstall and click change/remove or uninstall.

If these two options do not provide enough free space, you should try a disk cleanup. You can perform the disk cleanup process by first clicking on My Computer. Select the drive where you are attempting to install the application and right click on that drive. Select Properties and then click on the General tab. Below the boxes where the free space is indicated, there is a Disk Cleanup button. Click the Disk Cleanup button and then click OK to start the cleanup process.

Increasing disk space using one or all of the previous methods is a good first step to remedying Fatal Error 1603.

About:Blank – Otherwise Known as the Hijacker

How many times have you tried to connect to a web page and nothing shows up except for a little message in the corner of the screen that says About:Blank, or something of the sort? This message can be a big problem for unsuspecting web browsers. Not only is it inconvenient, but it can cause a great deal of damage to your system.

The common definition of hijack means to take something by force. About:Blank does just that; it hijacks information from the web page you are trying to view and from your system. It is otherwise known as a homepage hijacker or the HoldOldSP hijacker. Basically, a hijacker is spyware or a virus that is seeking to damage your computer system or hack into information that you have on your system. There are several variations of the same hijacker that can cause different forms of damage to your computer. If you receive an About message, you can be fairly certain that you have some traces of spyware on your system.

The most common form of About messages are About: and About:Blank, with differences usually due to the browser being used. These messages are usually displayed either as blank pages or partial or unidentifiable information. There are many different about:blank spyware versions floating around. Being aware that About is a dirty word can keep you on the lookout for potential threats to your system.

What normally happens when you type a URL or address into your browser is that the browser uses the URL to identify where the information you need is located and retrieves it for you. If you receive an About:Blank message instead of the information you were searching for, chances are that a hijacker has taken the information you were looking for and replaced it with a blank document. The document may look empty to the user, but actually it is a URL scheme that is used to load blank pages into other browsing options. Once the blank page is loaded, it can then be modified by the spyware that now exists on your computer.

The About:Blank hijackers are difficult to remove manually and are persistent in their efforts to gain information from your computer system. Hijackers are known to make changes to the computer registry, which can cause havoc to your computer. Even the best spyware programs have been known to be unsuccessful in removing all of the traces of About:Blank hijackers.

If you receive an About:Blank message, you should take the following steps to rid your system of them right away:

• Close all of your browser windows.
• Go to the Start menu and select Run.
• Type cleanmgr and click OK.
• Download XoftSpySE and run this on your computer.
• Reboot your computer following the scan.
• Scan your system a second time using XoftSpySE, which should remove any leftover traces of the spyware on your system.

Some spyware can be difficult to remove and persistent in its efforts to gain information from your system. The best defense a computer user has against spyware is a good, up-to-date virus protection and spyware program. It may not prevent everything from leaking through, but it will offer more protection that you will have without it.