Computer and internet briefs

Feb 12, 2012, 2:06 GMT

How Facebook Timeline works

Berlin (dpa) - Facebook users should take some time when switching their profile to the new Timeline version and carefully review the information made public. The new cover still displays the user's own posts on their profile page but also shows dates such as his or her birthday or sibling's birthday. Users can add other events such as job changes or weddings while deleting unwelcome entries and decorating their profiles with a new large-format title picture.

Until now, Facebook members have had the choice of retaining the old profile page or the new Timeline version, but the company has announced that all members will have to use the new profile.

Posts are displayed in Timeline in two columns next to one another. The star in the upper right corner allows for individual entries to be emphasized more than others while the pencil next to it hides or deletes posts or adds information such as place or time.

A small symbol appears next to the date of every entry, and clicking on the symbol can change the privacy settings. This allows information to be visible only to certain people such as friends or to all users. Users can also check in profile settings to see what the profile will look like for others.

Chrome browser should be updated

Berlin (dpa) - Google has made available an important update for its Chrome browser. The German Federal Office for Information Security (BSI) recommends Chrome users install the update to close a number of security leaks.

Users who have not deactivated or de-installed automatic Google updates need not do anything as the update will be done automatically. All other Chrome users should click on the wrench symbol in the upper right corner of the browser window and select 'about Google Chrome.' Then the browser will check the version and offer the update.

The update plugs security gaps that could allow hackers to make Chrome crash, present false information in the address bar, execute malicious codes in a protected area of the browser or get around a security mechanism for script languages.

Those printing a lot should buy duplex devices

Berlin (dpa) - Individuals who print a lot of pages either privately or professionally should purchase an inkjet printer with a duplex function. This function allows for printing on both sides of the paper. This is especially advantageous for drafts, which can be printed on both sides of lower-quality paper. The better and more expensive paper is in the second tray and would then be selected only for higher quality printing or official letters.