Help File

QIn the Windows Vista computer at home, there's a folder that shows all recently changed files. We have people visiting frequently, and we don't want it to be too easy for them to see our documents, pictures and so on.

AThis folder, one of a handful that Vista parks in the "Favorite Links" sidebar of a desktop window, is easy to remove: drag it to the Recycle Bin.

You also can open the Links folder in your user directory (the one with your Documents, Music and Pictures folders) to delete more than one folder at once. To add a folder to this list, drag it to that folder or the sidebar and Vista will create a shortcut for you.

You might think all this would be obvious -- except that in Windows XP, the sidebar showing common tasks and "Other Places" doesn't allow simple editing. So an XP veteran could be forgiven for thinking that Vista's sidebar, which takes up the same spot in a window, is no more flexible.

To get back to the original question: People who would poke around your computer to look for interesting files also might like to rifle though the silverware and look through your mail. Maybe you shouldn't invite them over.

How can I stop iPhoto from opening every time I sync my iPhone with my Mac? I don't use the camera on the phone all that much.

The only fix is to tell iPhoto not to open when a camera is plugged into the Mac -- not only an iPhone, but any camera. In iPhoto's Preferences window, change the "Connecting camera opens" menu from "iPhoto" to "No application."

Assuming you plug in your iPhone more often than your camera, this may not be too bad. You'll just need to remember to launch iPhoto on your own when you want to import photos; once it's up and running, it will see the camera and offer to grab your pictures.

Rob Pegoraro attempts to untangle computing conundrums and errant electronics each week. Send questions to The Washington Post, 1150 15th St. NW, Washington, D.C. 20071 or robp@washpost.com. Turn to Thursday's Business section or visit washingtonpost.com anytime for his Fast Forward column.