Beginning with the End User's License Agreement

When it comes to protecting your Windows PC from malware and viruses, there's no option but to have onboard, an antivirus system that actively monitors your system. People like me, who like to experiment, keep trying trial versions that every security software company out there dishes out. Of course, the lucky ones get paid to review. I don't. But yes I have never really bought a software off my own money. Never felt the need. 


But there are guys like chuzZoo, who are just to scared to compromise their precious data. At least that's what he told me, when he handed this shining new, seal packed, DVD jewel case containing an antivirus and firewall suite, that he had bought off the shelf of an electronics mega store. He wanted me to do the installation and activation stuff and get it running. I didn't have any issues with that for sure. After all, I'd be installing an authentic,  purchased software for the first time in my life. 


So I quickly tore apart whatever packing there was, and mounted the DVD to begin the setup. Suddenly I realised I had to take care of the cookies I had started preparing a while back in the oven. So I quickly started with the setup and handed the laptop to chuzZoo, asking him to press the next button all the time until the installation procedure was done wit, and left for the cooking shelf to look after my cookies. 


When I was thoroughly satisfied with the colour and aroma of my cookies, I switched off the oven and went back to the living room, only to find chuzZoo in one of his trade mark, deep reading modes.  I was hoping it was the manual, because that would have made my job of explaining to him, a lot easier. But, if wishes could be horses... 

Turned out, chuzZoo, had moved on to the next screen only once, when he came across the EULA or The End User Licence Agreemnt, which needed to be accepted, to continue with the installation. And my dutiful friend, made it a point to go read it. Line after line and interestingly, between the lines. 


"You don't need to read it that carefully dude. It's just a simple agreement, they won't usurp your property if you agree.", I chuckled.  


"No, but it's still pretty important. It lowers my expectations off this piece of software quite a lot. I won't expect miracles at least., chuzZoo pointed out, looking at me right into the eyes and making a point, while adjusting his spectacles. 


"Well, that's an interesting observation. I never thought a simple document as the EULA could serve such an important purpose. Innovative to say the least.", there was some real admiration for the guy's keen observation, behind whatever I said then.


"Wouldn't it be nice if every person we meet  came with an EULA too? At least for the first time... Even a generically worded one would do. You know something flashing on that certain someone's forehead or a post it slip popping out of his mouth, like those good old weighing machines at Railway Stations. Just a first hand reminder before any friendship or relationship, cautioning you against expecting too much out of it...", for once, chuzZoo was giving my imagination a run for it's money!


"Why can't you imagine the whole EULA-popping-out scenario dude?", yes, that was agreeably my last shot at trying to gain the upper hand in the conversation. 


"If I had been that good at self cautioning, I wouldn't be me man..." replied chuzZoo. 


And I was left speechless for once. Talk of upper hand... bah!

Giving Back

All through the past week, I reflected back on what winZoo told me about life and recycle bins. I seemed awkward at first, selfish some time later, but in the end, after a week of having tried to use his suggestion about efficiently using my life's recycle bin, I must admit that it comes across as a more and more practical approach at living life. 


winZoo, is so good at helping me out by mean of his spontaneous life saving tips that I'm kind of, becoming a great fan of his. Sharing and spreading the message helps to make things better for the teeming millions out there. And I for one, would sure like to share whatever winZoo tells me about troubleshooting life's worries. 


Just to say a 'thank you' to him in my own way, I have decided to come out with a handbook, dedicated to winZoo, my mentor for now. I call it the Troubleshooter's Hanbook. You can go through all his tips and tricks in this piece of art that I'll be updating every now and then. The manual is  located in the Living Like Windows sidebar, and you can also read it here.


Till then, happy reading... :~)

I'm Lovin' It

Ever since I'd read Chetan Bhagat's brand of real life inspired fiction, all I had ever dreamt of was to be be a character in one of those new age fantasy novels. Of course, Chetan Bhagat won't adapt figure '0' cartoons for the heck of it and philanthropy is kind of dead in this world....


Or so I thought till I met winZoo. The guy with the crown - My know it all angel. So, although I'm not going to be the subject of a book, I'm going to be the best friend to a new age real life hero. [He's mine for sure, and sooner than later, he'll be yours too.]


By the way, I'm chuZoo. I work for an Indian MNC, thanks to my MBA degree from a lesser known college. My idol is Manmohan Singh and to some extent, Sachin Tendulkar. I love making friends and knowing them inside out. I have a crush on.. err.. that's too much for an introductory meeting. 


That is my real problem according to winZoo. I just don't know how to be discrete and diplomatic. And some other issues here and there which he says he's going to work upon, with me. He'll make me the complete man he says, without my having to buy anything Raymond's. Tell you what... the greatness of the guy is his simplicity and of course sense of humour. 


Me I'm going to be happy as long as I get to hear from you every now and then... do keep saying His and Hellos dear ones. 


God bless you, me and of course winZoo.