When copying files from CD to your hard drive, it’s important to realize that the Windows “Read Only” property will be copied with the file. To enable writing to the file on your local computer, you will need to highlight the file name in Explorer, and right-click to open Properties. Make sure the Read-Only attribute box is unchecked, and then save the modified settings by clicking Apply and OK.

Windows auto-play moves past annoyance into downright dangerous when it auto-installs a virus or trojan horse on your computer from an infected thumb drive or CD. The best way to turn off auto-play is with TweakIU, a free Windows XP addon provided by Microsoft. For detailed instructions, read Ask Leo.

Although Windows has built-in support for burning CDs, burning DVDs requires extra software. Many DVDs come with software such as Nero or Roxio, but computer expert Leo Notenboom recommends a free alternative: ImgBurn . For more, read Ask Leo’s detailed instructions.

Although your computer can play both MP3 CDs and audio CDs, most car and home CD players can not play compressed MP3 audio. If you want maximum compatibility, you need to specify “Audio CD” format when you burn your own discs. For more about compression and audio formats, read Ask Leo.

Got photos? Got CDs? How about creating a cool CD cover from your own photos? This fun tool from Flagrant Disregard will create a personalized, printable page that integrates your photo and text into a CD or DVD cover that you simply print, cut, and fold. You can upload a photo from your own computer, or use an online photo from Flickr or your own website.

Even if you do not own an iPod, the free iTunes Jukebox is an excellent desktop tool for both Windows and Apple. It organizes and plays digital music, and it also rips (converts CDs to digital format) and burns (creates CDs from digital files.)

Although gummed CD labels from a print-them-yourself kit can look cool, there is evidence that over time they can destroy your CDRs, leaving them totally unreadable. The safest method for labeling a CDR is a permanent marker on the clear inside ring, where no data is stored. For details read Langa Letter: http://www.internettipoftheweek.com/?p=198

When a CD doesn’t play correctly, try washing it gently with warm water and a squirt of liquid dish soap, and then drying it with a clean lint-free towel. This will remove finger prints, but not scratches. If this doesn’t solve the problem, try a mild abrasive such as baking soda toothpaste or furniture polish. More tips on removing CD scratches can be found at Marshall County School System, FREE CD Scratch Removal System and TechTV Call for Help.