TechByter Worldwide 2020-01-10: Is This the Year of Linux? Short Circuits. Spare Parts.

If you've wondered whether Linux would be right for you, you're not alone. I've asked myself that question just about every year since the early 1990s. In Short Circuits: Some PDF documents have restrictions on copying data or printing the file, and sometimes even passwords that prohibit opening the file. There are workarounds. • Remember when you could get to Safe mode in Windows by pressing F8 during the boot process? Microsoft removed that capability starting with Windows 8, but you can restore it if you don't might a slightly slower boot. In Spare Parts (only on the website): When Windows doesn't work right, you might be tempted to wipe the disk and start over. Before using the big hammer, you can often save time and effort by repairing Windows instead. • The Federal Communications Commission wants cellular providers to block fraudulent calls, but don't expect change anytime soon. In the meantime, it's up to us. • Twenty years ago: A small but growing group of Linux fans predicted that Linux would take over the desktop. We're still waiting.