Ask A Geek

Q: If I start my win98se computer with a USB device connected at bootup the computer will freeze. After rebooting a few times to safe mode and shutting down with no USB devices connected then the computer will boot into win98 and I can then connect the USB modem and get on Internet. I have the same problem if the USB printer is connected so I know it is not just an issue with the USB modem.

This never used to happen so I am wondering what I might be able to do to solve the problem. I have also recently started getting registry checker blue screen errors after a few hangs as well. Is there a way to check for USB issues? What should I try to do to resolve this?

Q: I recently purchased a netbook with AT&T 3G service with the intention of sharing that connection with my roommate over an ad hoc wireless connection. I shared the local area connection that is hooked up to the 3G, and I made an ad hoc with the wireless. The other computer is able to connect to the internet now through the ad hoc using almost everything except a web browser. It can log onto skype and it can use aim now but when I try to browse a webpage it doesnt load. This makes me think a specific port is blocked so I turned off the windows firewall but that did not work and am not sure what else I can do. Is there a way to get around this?

Q: Can you tell me if I can connect to XBox Live using a Sprint AirCard and if so, how?

Q: I have an IMac and a Macbook. I also have a Sprint Ovation U727 USB modem. How do I access the internet with both computers with the one modem?