Skype 4 Beta 3 Adds Outlook Support, Bandwidth Manager

Skype has released a third beta of Skype 4 for Windows, which keeps the focus on large-screen video chat and adds a few new (and returning) tools.

Namely, support for Outlook contact importing, abuse reporting, and a "bandwidth manager" that aims to improve call quality are present in the Windows-only beta. The missing button to report call quality to Skype also makes a comeback.

Remote Desktop: TEAM VIEWER

Windows only: Joining the ranks of Crossloop, iRemotePC and LogMeIn, TeamViewer lets you connect to other PCs for remote access, tech support, file sharing and more.

The tiny setup program gives you the option of configuring your PC in host or client mode, or skipping installation altogether (in which case TeamViewer runs without installing anything). I chose the latter option on two PCs: one running XP, the other, Vista. From there I simply entered a numeric ID and password generated by the software, and presto: Instant remote access. In addition to controlling the other PC, I could transfer files and chat with the other user (myself, in this case). By enabling server mode, I was able to switch directions and share my desktop with the other PC—neat for showing presentations, demonstrations, etc.

TeamViewer works around firewalls and promises 1024-bit RSA private/public key exchange and 128-bit RC4 session encoding. In other words, it's pretty secure. It also has at least one advantage over each of the three aforementioned remote-access programs, so if you're interested in connecting to another computer from afar, give TeamViewer a try. The program is free for personal, non-commercial use, and it requires Windows 98 or later.

Internet Explorer Exploit Temporary Fix Now Available

Microsoft will be pushing out an unscheduled security patch for Internet Explorer's recently-discovered vulnerability tomorrow, but you can get a temporary patch from British software security firm Prevx today.
Tech news site TechRadar reports that simply not using IE won't keep the vulnerability from affecting your PC; an estimated 2 million PCs have already been infected. The vulnerability affects IE 6 and above, including Internet Explorer 8. Chances are most users (not reading this) won't get to the Prevx temporary fix before tomorrow, but if anything make sure Windows' software updates are turned on so you get Microsoft's official fix then.