Q. I recently had Zone Alarm on my computer, and one of their updates stopped me from being able to access the Internet or e-mail. I removed the software, and they came right up. Can you recommend a free firewall download? — Ken

NEW YORK - The launch of Apple Inc.'s much-anticipated new iPhone turned into an information-technology meltdown on Friday, as customers were unable to get their phones working.

A SURVEY conducted by provider of privacy software firm Steganos has found that many users are woefully unaware of the privacy and security software and settings on their computers.

From online courses to kid-friendly laptops and virtual teachers, technology is spreading in America's classrooms, reducing the need for textbooks, notepads, paper and in some cases even the schools themselves.

SEATTLE -- Blind people generally use computers with the help of screen-reader software, but those products can cost more than $1,000, so they're not common on public PCs at libraries or Internet cafes.