Ask A Geek

Q: When installing program updates for programs like iTunes, does the size of the updates build on top of the disk space already used by the program or does it reuse the disk space already in use?

A: Every program update works different. iTunes, for example, has you download a new iTunes and it actually replaces the old version so you don’t need to do any deleting yourself. Some program similar to this will actually uninstall the previous version during the install process. Read the rest of this entry »

Q: How do I remove a program that I can not find? The computer is telling me I need a source document which I never had.

Q: I installed Internet Explorer 8 on my computer and it made it really slow. I would like to remove it. I was told by someone that did this that it didn’t remove everything and changed some settings. Can you give me some advice?

A: Follow these instructions for uninstall or remove Internet Explorer 8. Then run CCleaner and defraggler to make your computer  runs faster and more stable.

You may want to download and install FireFox prior to uninstalling IE 8 just in case IE 6/7 fails to return to normal operation. This way you are sure to have a stable browser.

Q: I have bought a second-hand Dell laptop with Windows 2000 Professional OS. When I go into Add/Remove Programs on the Control Panel I do not get a list of programs installed. Why might this be and how else can I view and then remove programs?

Q: I have a “so called” virus cleaning program which I can not get rid of. It has made my computer unusable as it is so invasive. Is ther any way of getting rid of it short of having to re-format etc. I have tried to locate any files related to it with no success.

Q: How do I remove this JCarousel plugin from my computer that causes infinite looping of random bits and pieces of radio on my computer?

A: There are a couple things to try which are outlined below that should help in removing the JCarousel plugin for you:

1. Have you tried going to Add/Remove programs and deleting the JCarousel?
2. If it is not listed in Add/Remove programs it could be showing up as spyware/adware so if you don’t have a program to run for this you could try a free program called Adaware or any other spyware/adware removal program.
3. If you have tried both listed above and they did not remedy the situation try the following:
   1. Go to Start > Run > type services.msc
   2. Scroll through the list and see if there is anything listed referring to jcarousel.
   3. The JCarousel is more than likely set to run automatically. Right-click the JCarousel and select Properties.
   4. A window will appear and you will see under the General tab an option that lists startup type and select Manual or Disable.