http://support.mozilla.org/en-US/kb/what-mozilla-maintenance-service

What is the Mozilla Maintenance Service?

Firefox now installs an optional service called the Mozilla Maintenance Service. This service allows Firefox to install updates without requiring you to click yes in the Windows User Account Control (UAC) dialog.
Note: The article only applies to Windows.

This article applies to Firefox 12 and above. The latest Firefox version can be downloaded from mozilla.org/firefox.

No UAC No UAC

on XP you get it to, I take it off I don't need if you got Windows Vista & Windows 7 keep you need it.

I do the same with most of my registered software - but some people go into meltdown when they receive emails from a software company - blaming the sender rather than just using the options provided to stop the emails.

I've found it far simpler to create a folder in my Inbox and then create a message rule to direct emails from Ashampoo and others to that folder. I can then review the emails, or not, and they won't clutter the Inbox.

While some users complain about software that installs "extras" - usually the reason they find themselves in the situation was because they failed to remove the options during install. It goes without saying, that when installing new software on your PC, it is important that you don't rush, and pay attention to each screen and option that you include during the install.

Ashampoo is one company that offers to install a toolbar and make changes to the users web browser. While some users may actually find the toolbar useful - many more would rather keep their PCs config as light as possible.

During setup - there is a check box to turn off the Toolbar and to not change browser settings. That is it. A check box. Read the screens when running setup and clear that checkbox. Not a drama - just one click. Yes it can be inconvenient, and may require some practice.

Uncheck the toolbar checkbox (2nd highlighted from the top) the other 2 boxes should uncheck automatically.

Once you get the software running - Ashampoo programs usually have a "service channel" feature that not only checks for updates, but also lets you know about other offers or software that is available.

Some users also don't like this feature. To turn it off - find the "Service Channel" screen - could be straight off the main menu, or buried in the "Options" or "Settings" menu.

In terms of emails (spam). When you register (even for a free giveaway license) - Ashampoo stores ALL of your License keys in a free account (login using your email address and password - check your registration email).

* HOW TO (CORRECTLY) UNSUBSCRIBE FROM ASHAMPOO EMAILS

Visit http://ashampoo.com/ and you will see a top menu with "Products/Shop, Downloads, MyAshampoo, Support and Company".

Click on "MyAshampoo" - and login (MyAshampoo Login)

Click on Settings

There you will see a box for each type of email aka "Service Letter", which you can deactivate. When they are all shown as below - a message will appear (as shown) telling you that all emails have been disabled - you can subscribe or unsubscribe from any emails from Ashampoo.

Finally all of the emails that Ashampoo send out have an unsubscribe link - that will take you to a the above "service letter" page - click on the link included at the end of the email. (Hint: If you don't read the email, you won't see the unsubscribe link/info. Just deleting the email won't unsubscribe you from their mail list).

It is much better (for everyone concerned) if you unsubscribe rather than the "solution" I have heard some users do, when they allow Ashampoo to continue to send the emails, but the user sets up rules in their email client to block the emails (which is just dumb).

My own opinion though - I stop the emails - and occasionally login to the Ashampoo site - visit MyAshampoo page and check out the "Service Letters" to read about the current offers every few weeks there really are some great offers now and then. I'd never pay $50 or full price - if I can wait until a promotion comes along, and collect the same program for about $10 it is worth waiting.

Perhaps with all these options (even though it only takes 2 minutes to turn them off), I'm sure some users when providing their email address for the first time would appreciate an easier option - a single "do not contact me" checkbox. As the saying goes, "Less is More". If the software is good, the user knows how to find Ashampoo and will return when they are ready to upgrade or purchase other programs - but users who feel pestered or hassled, will stay away, and "warn" their friends to do the same.

http://www.techrepublic.com/blog/five-tips/five-tips-for-using-system-restore-effectively/817?tag=nl.e101

Use caution when dual-booting with XP
If you have a machine that dual-boots Windows 7 and Windows XP, every time you boot XP all but your most recent Windows 7 restore points will be lost.
To prevent that from happening, download this registry setting change, right-click the file, click Merge, and okay the installation. Once the settings in this file have been successfully merged with your Windows registry, those restore points won’t be deleted when you boot Windows XP.

http://news.softpedia.com/news/Fix-Windows-7-SP1-RTM-quot-0xC0000009A-quot-and-quot-0xC0000034-quot-Error-Messages-199817.shtml

Microsoft is offering two updates designed to resolve issues preventing users from upgrading Windows 7 with the addition of Service Pack 1 (SP1).
Essentially, customers will get fixes for issues preventing the deployment of SP1, glitches which are accompanied by one of these error messages: "0xC0000009A" and "0xC0000034".
"0xC0000009A" can be presented to users when they are deploying SP1 for either Windows 7 or Windows Server 2008 R2.
“When you try to install Windows 7 Service Pack 1 (SP1) or Windows Server 2008 R2 Service Pack 1 (SP1) on a computer that has more than 10 language packs installed, the computer stops responding at a black screen. Additionally, you receive an "0xC0000009A" error message,” Microsoft stated.
“This issue occurs because the number of open registry key handles for subkeys that have the same name is limited to 65,535 in the registry. Each language pack that is installed on the computer increases the number of open registry key handles.”
The Redmond company advises users to first deploy KB2534366 and only then start the upgrade to Windows 7 SP1.

http://www.technipages.com/the-complete-guide-to-slipstreaming-a-windows-7-sp1-disc.html

The Complete Guide To Slipstreaming a Windows 7 SP1 Disc.
This process will take your non-service pack Windows 7 installation disc and allow you to burn a new disc with SP1 merged. No more running Windows Update for hours after a Windows 7 installation.

http://www.zdnet.com/blog/bott/quick-fix-for-windows-7-sp1-installation-errors/3040?tag=nl.e539

If you run Windows 7 and Linux on the same PC, you might run into an odd error when you try to install Windows 7 Service Pack 1. I’ve already had three readers contact me with reports that they were stopped by error 0×800f0a12 during the installation process. It’s a non-fatal error, but still baffling.

It actually restored an icon for me.

may be not as bad as Service pack for XP sp2 and sp3

erase all your special icons installed by GOTD Folder Marker.
But you can redo.

I wish people like CosmicSurfer would read the the giveaway rules of the software and licencing.

Terms and conditions

Please note that the software you download and install during
the Giveaway period comes with the following important limitations:
1) No free technical support
2) No free upgrades to future versions
3) Strictly non-commercial usage (unless stated otherwise)

If you don't like press the back button.

It was good while it lasted,
Merry Merry, Happy Happy,
Bye Bye
CS

That's a relief, I was worried you had left. ;)

I was giving some thought, and considering your experience and the fact you have been around for such a long time - you are more than able to start helping others and solving problems.

This overly negative outlook on everything, isn't good for anyone (so I've been told). Give being friendly, helpful and understanding a shot.

If it makes you feel any better - activation works just fine for almost everybody (you are a statistical anomaly). If it wasn't you, it might be someone else - and you wouldn't wish that on another person, would you? (That would just be mean).

Drink from the glass half full for a change.

I realise this might not actually resolve your problem - but being nice about it, is better than trying to shoot everybody down.

Something to take away and ponder - perhaps nobody "wants" to help you? Have you questioned yet, that your lack of progress in "your little matter" is a reflection more on yourself than the rest of the world?

I don't believe there is anything to gain in dragging this out any longer. It's almost been a pleasure. I'm sure if any other "surrogate volunteers" decide to help you, they will let you know. Somehow.

I won't keep you any further... time is money. I've cost you far too much already, and for that, I apologise. But on behalf of all the users - thanks for dropping dropping bye bye.

I call it a Trial.. because you can't update it, and you don't get any Support from the publisher... That's a trial.. Unlike a paid version where you can update and get support.

The only bonus is that it doesn't stop functioning like some Trials.. Lots of Trials will still work after the Trial period, but they turn off important attributes.. a software that you can't update is like a software where some functionality is turned-off... Ergo - a Trial.

CS

Sorry, I didn't read your original thread. It seems that the games still have the "old" system, though.

>CosmicSurfer

What are you talking about? It's not activating right? It seems to work for everyone else - wait a minute, the site's been down frequently. Maybe that's the problem.

Oh, and you call the software a "trial" because there's no tech support for it. If you buy a car without a warranty(highly unlikely, but I'm just making a point), does that make it a taxi?

Also, please stop the random capitalization, it hurts my head.

1) The fact that I made my first post only yesterday, is not indicative about how long I have been a regular downloader at this site.. It is more indicative of How long I have had No issues to post about. FYI, I have been visiting this site DAILY almost since it's inception.

2) I made Clear and detailed posts of my issues in another Thread ... Just do a search on "Fatal Error: Key is Invalid" and you will find, not only the thread I started, but also the threads of many others... many (but not all) complaining of the same issue.. and nowhere is there any help visible from Giveawayoftheday...and nowhere is there any idea of a fix forthcoming.

3) I agree that Giveawayoftheday is not responsible for supporting the software they distribute... BUT they ARE responsible for the Activation routine that is the source of my issues.. The software doesn't have to work for everyone.. but their activation routine does. Software installation is NOT the issue... "ACTIVATION" IS !!!!

How many time must I try before I give up. I'm only trying to get some help so I can remain a loyal user.

4) TRUE... Volunteer moderators and other users make for a dedicated Help Base... BUT these people don't have access or knowledge of the actual code and routines.. they can't actively initiate any changes or repairs.. nor do they have all the answers or expertise to repair the problems. They are in fact ONLY dedicated volunteers. My Bitch is with the COMPANY, not it's surrogate volunteer work-force.

This forum is on the giveawayoftheday website.. it's not on a Fan-site somewhere else.. The company has a duty to monitor it and provide assistance when the other users clearly can't. WHERE is the company?

Timely action is REQUIRED on a site like this.. If the software you have been waiting for is available on only this ONE DAY, then you require immediate Help.. Nothing less is acceptable. Use it or Lose it. In the past few weeks I have lost the chance to get 3 programs I wanted.. and the only fault I can find is with Giveawayoftheday. Of Course this pisses-me off. Why come back for a service I can no longer benefit from???

5) This website is NOT a Free service provided out of the generosity of some benevolent anonymous benefactor... It is a BUSINESS, trying to generate income from a unique business model.. and like all business models will Live or Die based on it's acceptance from it's customer base. Ignoring the basics of Customer Service and Tech Quality Control, is NOT the best way to grow a business.

6) As for Me... as I said in my earlier post... There are a multitude of Free and Open Source alternatives.... If the company is not interested in helping its Customers with a legitimate issue, then I don't need to stay around for abuse.. or a service that will no longer work for me, after multiple attempts... It's like dangling a carrot in-front of a rabbit.. I can just never get the prize.

And when the many programs that I have downloaded previously (without any problems) from this service expire.. well I guess I'll just uninstall them too... No Kudos from me.. No Commissions on Trials turned into paying customer.. (Yes!!! One year free software with no upgrades or tech support means that the software is only a Trial version.. a long trial, but still a Trial)... No referrals... No Benefit to the supplier companies.. No Benefit to Giveawayoftheday... Just a pissed-off customer with a big mouth, a negative experience, a keyboard and an 24/7 Internet connection.

It was good while it lasted,
Merry Merry, Happy Happy,
Bye Bye
CS

Unbelievable .......

/me shaking head, walking away............

So in 20 words or less - what exactly is your problem?

Today's giveaways seem to be quite popular there haven't been many problems at all (just from reading the comments).

Of course software support isn't officially provided or promised.

The lack of REAL & LIVE Support is becoming glaringly noticeable to the regular users...

This "lack of REAL & LIVE Support" that you mention is provided by the regular users... for free.

Support resources are best applied where they will do the most good. Are you offering to start helping other users? We could always do with some more people providing support.

Word of Mouth is King...

Only when the message is clear and relevant. Otherwise... just another rant.

Blah.. blah.. blah... The regular users? You mean like you who joined us here in the forums yesterday? If you have an issue.. you can't just ask questions or start up a discussion? You have to rant on in your own special way?

I don't see how it's GOTD's responsibility to make sure the software works for everyone. I don't see where they promise a service... I also don't see where they say they give support. I mean seriously.. GOTD can't count on the fact that some ppl will just never understand the complexity of installing software. For some ppl it's such a reach mentally... that most of us here can't comprehend how after all this time.. ppl still complain about the activation file not working.

And when you talk of customers.. who is that actually? The developers? The sponsored ads? Yourself as the customer? What did you pay for? Feel like you got robbed, do ya? Your time is money? How much money did you lose typing out this gem that belongs in a letter to the staff via their contact page? My time is worth something to me too, and I had to wade through your diatribe here.

Anyway thx for your time. So if time is indeed money... consider this opinion a freebie. Stick to the freeware sites and you won't feel like you got screwed.

To Giveawayoftheday... Happy Holidays.

Sorry if I'm being vocal... But When something works, then Breaks for no apparent reason, it tends to piss people off.. I'm sure you understand..

It's unfortunate that you, at Giveawayoftheday don't seem to be interested in making your business model more successful.

The lack of REAL & LIVE Support is becoming glaringly noticeable to the regular users... We may not download everyday, but we do visit the site everyday... and we Do read the comments and reviews.

True, the software is FREE... BUT this is the service being offered and for the one day ONLY it is the responsibility of GAOTD to make sure it works for everyone.. and in the Best interest of your own Business model, you should let yuor "Customers" be upset with the Software that they are evaluating for FREE, not the people providing the service at GAOTD... which is not free.. Our TIME is worth Money.. We give you our Time in return for the service you promise.

If you can't provide this service, then your model is Broke.. Failed downloads lead to frustrations, especially from users that are loyal about checking everyday, looking (and waiting) for something that we can use... Only to find that there is a problem with the Activation routine.

WE are already taking a chance on the software.. having to add to the anxiety with an Activation that won't work is pushing the "Stress Envelope"... and to add INSULT to INJURY.. to be ignored by GAOTD when a problem develops... That is UNACCEPTABLE...

Almost everything being offered at this site is also offered though Freeware or Open Source.. We Have Alternatives... I'm sure that this is upsetting to not only your Customers, but also to your suppliers, who you promise to get the maximum attention.. (after all.. they are giving away free versions of their normally paid-for software for a reason)... and if we can't use it, we can't be happy with it, or pay for future updates, or tell our friends how wonderful it is.

And your "Suppliers" also read the comments and reviews on this site... How long before they too question the service you offer... Promises only work for a limited time.. eventually you need to pay off.

A Service offered that doesn't work is no longer needed.

In the Digital World...Just as in the Brick & Mortar World... a Customer lost is hard to get back... and we tell our friends.. who tell their Friends... and so On.. And so on...

Word of Mouth is King... Most Especially on the NET.

CosmicSurfer