Microsoft's Cyber Security EBook and Google TV

In an effort to keep up with the ongoing need for safety and security on the Web, especially for teens, Microsoft has developed and released a free Ebook that imparts and defines an incredible amount of diverse security topics.

Even though Microsoft created this specifically for teenagers, it became clear that the book's contents does offer such an indepth view into using the Internet safely that it can be used by anyone looking to gain advise and insight on Internet security.

One of Microsoft's main concerns in developing the Ebook was to not insult teens by appearing to be trying too hard to look cool. In checking out the Ebook, I must say that Microsoft did a fantastic job at, as the teen set says, "keeping it real."

Microsoft should be given high praise in that they really did create a comprehensive guide for teens as well as new computer users, which does cover everything relative to cyber security.

Some of the topics include catching phishing tactics, how to set up your browser so that you're protected against browser-based intrusions and crimes, how to handle cyber-stalking and bullying. The Ebook also offers up an interesting history and real world examples of the danger and harm that can and has come from cyber security vulnerabilities.

The great part is that you and your teenager can download the 253-page book for free. Microsoft has added an aspect of convenience in that you have the option to either download the entire book or you can download only those chapters that you feel are relevant to the specific concerns that you and your teenager may have.

In reviewing the Ebook, it was also obvious to me that it would be a great teaching tool for students and organizations.

I urge every parent, teacher, caregiver and youth organization to get a copy of this Ebook and to use it to help "tweens," teens and everyone find ways to be safe on the Web. If you would like to download the Ebook, all you need to do is visit "Own Your Space: Keep Yourself and Your Stuff Safe Online."

So, what's hot at Google? Well, Google has made a strong move into the Internet TV arena and is calling its new venture, appropriately so, Google TV. This new technology is planned to hit the scene within the next few months in the U.S. and will create a seamless connection between your TV and the Web.

Google TV will also connect to the Android app store as well as the Android-powered smartphones and the iPhone, with both having the capability to be used as remote controls for Google TV.

There will be three specific devices that will have the ability to initiate the Google TV platform and they will be Sony HDTV, Blu-ray players and a Logitech set-top box, both of which should connect to your TV, provided that your TV is in the recent high-definition realm.

This new endeavor is incredible as it will completely change the way we use and view our TVs and our computers, in that it will, in effect, merge the two. You will be able to get the Web at the push of a button and channeled TV with a smooth cross platform search tool ability and your TV will become an enormous digital photo frame with a slideshow mode that will allow you to have all your photos uploaded to sites like Flickr or Facebook.

Make sure you say thank you to the required Google TV hardware specs like Bluetooth and Wi-Fi, as they will give you the ability to load a Web page on your Android phone and beam it to your Google TV.

Also, in case you forgot, remember that whole Android and smartphone voice recognition thing I told you about in the first part of this series? Well, you can also use your Android phone's voice recognition, making it possible to change channels or search for shows just by talking into the phone and this application will become available for other smartphones in time.

As you can see, Microsoft and Google are charting a course, in their respective arenas, that is both exciting and definitely expanding our capabilities in the vast, open space we call the information highway.

So make sure you're on that fast-moving ride and strap in tight, because it's going to be a wild, fast-paced and exciting ride. I hope we can all keep up!

- Andino Ward