Presto! And your computer can run faster.
May 22, 2009 
I have an older computer that has so many programs loaded on it; it takes 7 to 8 minutes to boot up. Yes, I timed it! There are so many pop-ups, things like looking for Logitech black & white web cam – stuff I haven’t used for years! I just never got around to dumping all the unused crap. Well, there’s a cure for that. Something that will let your computer start almost instantly. Instant-on and a Windows machine usually don’t’ go hand in hand. Mac and/or Linux folks know that instant-on exists. To the rescue comes Presto Instant-On from Xandros. They’re the company that produced part of the software that helped the first Eee netbooks dazzle with their quick startup! Now you can add it to your XP or Vista machine. The download is a big one, 463 MB! Yep, depending on your connection that could take half an hour or more to download. But once it’s installed when you reboot, you’ll find your computer starts with two choices: Windows or Presto. You have to make your choice in 30 second or Windows will auto startup XP or Vista in 30 seconds. I looked away from the screen and was surprised when I saw the familiar Windows XP screen. Then I rebooted and saw the Presto choice. Presto does boot rapidly; in under 15 seconds. It offers Skype, IM, WiFi access and a free office program that lets me open and edit Word files. Built-in too is a Firefox browser. More apps are available through the Presto Applications Store. As Leo said on the Daily Giz Wiz. Presto has found a way to bring Linux to a Windows PC. There's a free seven-day trial version available; and if you like it the full version is $19.95! If you change your mind after using it it’s simple to remove using the Add/Remove Program. It made my older almost unusable computer usable again. It’s perfect for web searching, emails and like text editing. And it shuts down in seconds too! What a treat.
Hear this Netcast: www.twit.tv/dgw834
Reader Comments