Revised 31 Oct 18.
Some software was removed from my original posts. Also some software is no longer upgradeable, but still works.The links I provide take you to best site for more information as well as where to download from. All download sites are safe download sites, Mindblower!
This is more of an introduction to software I have used and continue to use. Some is free, some I opted to support by purchasing the Pro version, and some I subscribe to on a yearly basics. I'll try to make it interesting for me and those reading along (as I don't expect many posters/comments).
This is my way of giving back, since I've been (and continue to receive) assistance.
My first post will cover security software. Without a proper line of defense, one is prone to attacks and hacks.
I used to believe the ratings which were offered by industry professionals, who tested many companies, and assigned their percentages. Then I discovered, they are rating the entire package. What if one is only interested in certain features and could not care about they rest. To me, if one if unhappy with a companies software, that's the time to try out another, no matter what those testers recommend.
When finding one that works, keeps you safe, why indeed switch to another? We all have reasons for using different software. I'll simply try to show those who are looking for a change, something they might try out, that is recommended by a user, not a paid industry professional, Mindblower!
"For the needy, not the greedy"
Moderators
Will looking forward to your posts!!!!
Edited 31 Oct 18.
Security software (and more) meaning some of these programs offer users layers of protection without causing conflicts. Need to remember you can run several scanners at the same time, (though not recommended since it might slow the computer to a hault) but you should only have one running (installed when computer boots up and remain active) fireware, antivirus or antimalware; or your computer can become unsecure (you've lost your protection) or your computer simply crashes (blue screen or reboots).
AanonymoX Removed
An add-on for Chrome or Firefox which masks your IP address (like using a VPN) making anonymous web browsing possible. There is a FREE and Premium plan for those wanting more features. I personally have not tried the Premium, since I use the services of a VPN. But you can use the FREE version with a VPN for added privacy. Visit https://www.anonymox.net/en
AdGuard Added Sep 2018
A small extract from their site to just wet your appetite.
"AdGuard for Windows is not just another ad blocker, it is a multipurpose tool that combines all necessary features for the best web experience. It blocks ads and dangerous websites, speeds up page loading and protects your children when they are online." You get a 14 day free trial (all the features) to evaluate for yourself at http://www.adguard.com
Ghostery
Detects and blocks tracking technologies to speed up page loads, eliminate clutter, protect your data and is FREE. Does require user configuration unless the defaults suit your taste. Visit https://www.ghostery.com/
Kaspersky Internet Suite
I use it for Firewall Protection and a host of other features. Recommend you use the link or better yet, try it out for yourself. To save money, recommend you get it from Amazon or retail store during the sale season. The installation key does not have an expiration date. It is valid till you activate it. You get a 30 day trial period with all the features. Nothing held back, unlike with some other products. Visit https://usa.kaspersky.com/internet-security
Malwarebytes
Works great along side KIS. There is a FREE and paid version. The difference being the FREE version is a scanner and can only clean your compter after you are infected. For Real Time Protection (meaning it prevents you from getting infected) you must get the Premium unit, which includes Web, Exploit, Malware and Ransonware protection. You can also try out the Premium version for 14 days. Visit https://www.malwarebytes.com/pricing/
NoScript Removed
Is a mozilla-based browser (Firefox/Waterfox, ...) extension providing extra protection. It is FREE allowing add-on like JavaScript, Java, Flash and other plugins to be executed only by trusted web sites of your choice. Visit https://noscript.net/
PrivaZer
The best computer cleaner (and more), meaing you were never there. It is FREE though you are encouraged to support the program. Visit http://www.privazer.com/
SpywareBlaster
Works to prevent the installation of spyware and other potentially unwanted software on your Browser. It is FREE, though you are encouraged to offer support. Visit https://www.brightfort.com/spywareblaster.html
Uncheky
Assists users who often click their mouse too quickly by warning then of unwanted installers and automatically unchecking unrelated offers. Currently it is FREE. Visit https://unchecky.com/
Heimdal Agent Added Dec 2017
Adds another layer of security protection that no other company so far is offering. Recently read about the product here and was lucky to win a three year plan. Both FREE and Pro versions are available, but only the Pro has the added feature to justify having this program. Read the complete article here at DCT or visit https://heimdalsecurity.com/en/
Next post will cover utilities, Mindblower!
"For the needy, not the greedy"
Moderators
I have used some of your software? Good job!!
Utilities. Some of the utilities mentioned below can cause damage to your operating system, as they alter, clean, delete, optimize, remove, etc... Though they have been tested, are used by many, everyones computer is often unique. Doing too many tasks while running some of these programs can also be a problem within itself. Some programs warn users not do any task, or even make sure you're not doing tasks prior to running them. Common sense (totally misunderstood words) need to be implemented. Even doing a registry back-up (and knowing how/where to locate/use) though helpful cannot always correct a problem. Should remember that some programs do their own registry backs, and can only be accessed by them, not the Windows Restore. Always best to read the docs first (prior to using a program you have no clue as to what it does).
Defragger
I've used and tested many defrag programs. There is a FREE version as well as a Pro version. Visit http://www.piriform.com/defraggler
PDF-Viewer
I've used and tested many pdf viewers. There is a FREE version as well as a Pro version.
Visit https://www.tracker-software.com/product/pdf-xchange-viewer
Ifranview
The only viewer you will ever need (the site will explain what you can view with this program) and it's FREE. Visit http://www.irfanview.com/
Process Lasso
Taken from their site, "it is an advanced process priority optimization and system automation utility. It offers process priority optimization, CPU core affinity optimization, power plan automation, automated rules, and so much more; you name it (within this area), and Process Lasso does it!" Should add that results var depending on your cpu speed and the amount of free ram you have. There is a FREE and Pro version. Visit https://bitsum.com/?inproduct
Puran Utilities
FREE for home users. Extract from site "A set of more than 20 software utilities including but not limited to utilities that can help you get the best performance out of your computer. It also provides an automatic and a one click solution to keep your computer clean and error free." Don't use all of them. Handy when there is nothing else.
Visit http://www.puransoftware.com/Puran-Utilities.html
Revo Uninstaller
More than just a program uninstaller. There is a FREE and Pro version. Highly recommend the Pro (when it goes on sale). Visit https://www.revouninstaller.com/
TeraCopy
For those doing simply file coping, this is not for you. But, is you transfer many files, want to add (que) files, to the same or different directory, then give this program a try. There a FREE and Pro version. V3.2 is truly stable from v2.7.
Visit http://www.codesector.com/teracopy
TweakNow Power Pack.
As the name suggests, a program to tweak your operating system. There used to be a free version, but no more. Complete information of what you can do and pricing at http://www.tweaknow.com/PowerPack.php
WiseCare365
A product that was offered here (this year) at DCT. There is a FREE and Pro version. Detailed program information avaliable at http://www.wisecleaner.com/wise-care-365.html
ZtreeWin
Taken from their site "is a fast and flexible text-mode file/directory manager for all versions of Windows. It has been developed as the successor to the legendary DOS file-manager XTreeGold." I'm totally biased as I grew up with DOS and this Windows adaptation rocks my world. Best feature is the split screen (F8). You must try it to find out all the (so called) hidden gems. Use the Ctrl and Alt keys to reveal. You get to try it out for FREE for 30 days. Then your expected to pay for it. Visit http://www.ztree.com/html/ztreewin.htm
Next installement is my mixed bag, Mindblower!
"For the needy, not the greedy"
My mixed bag. One of the nice things of having two computers, two monitors, (etc..) side by side, is you can be doing work on one, and get entertained on the other. I've tried to keep my comments short and to the point (hopefully). All links were tested and worked as of the posting date. Wherever possible I used the Manufactures site, to avoid possible fakes and added advertising.
Audio player
Have tried many but keep coming back to Spider. If you get an error message when trying to play, simply close the message as it has no effect on the player. There is a Radio option where you can select from thousands of links and it's FREE. Visit https://spider-player.en.softonic.com/
Browsers
If you unaware, I'm a Firefox/Waterfox fan. The main difference being Waterfox is the fastest 64bit browser on the market. Browsers are FREE, each having features which attract unique individuals. Internet Explorier is one of my back-up browsers.
Visit https://www.mozilla.org/en-US/firefox/new/ or https://www.waterfoxproject.org/
Classic Shell
Extracted from their site "Classic Shell™ is FREE software that improves your productivity, enhances the usability of Windows and empowers you to use the computer the way you like it. The main features are: Highly customizable start menu with multiple styles and skins, Quick access to recent, frequently-used, or pinned programs, Find programs, settings, files and documents, Start button for Windows 7, Windows 8, Windows 8.1 and Windows 10, Toolbar and status bar for Windows Explorer. Caption and status bar for Internet Explorer." I opted to convert my Windows 8.1 with Classic Shell to give it the look and feel of using Windows XP. But you can mix and match, just click on the link for more info. Visit http://classicshell.net/
Media converter
If you need to convert from one format to another, this is your best pick. It's even offered here on DCT. The site shows and explains all the supported formats. Something all might enjoy, is beening able to convert a Music Video (MP4) into a Music File (MP3). Depending on what file size you're converting, the more cores and memory you have, the faster the process. If you want speed (doing a quick conversion), don't hog the cpu while converting.
Visit https://www.winxdvd.com/hd-video-converter-deluxe/
Start8, Start10
This is an alternative to the Classic Shell, and much more powerful with extra add-ons (extra cost). To be fair, this program is has a 30 day free trial, but the cost is less than $5.00 US. Those who seriously want to stay with say Windows 10, I urge you to give this program and site a good look. Visit https://www.stardock.com/products/start10/
VPN
Stands for Virtual Private Network. In laymans terms, a VPN replaces your IP address with another, masking your identity, while surfing the Internet. Each company has features which attract users. To get more understanding, I've included a link some might find informative. You'll be blown away with what you find. Most folks think cheaper is the way to go (which is FALSE). Not all VPN's truly mask your IP address. Some can leak. There are sites that can test for these leaks. There was also a posted blog on using VPN's earlier this year, here at DCT.
Visit https://thatoneprivacysite.net/vpn-section/
Video player
You might do a search and see there are many to select from, but in reality, there are only two champs in this field. GOM and VLC. Both are FREE and have plenty of features to select. I often find myself switching between both, but GOM is my number 1. Visit http://player.gomlab.com/download.gom or https://www.videolan.org/vlc/
As an added bonus, though hardware, let me shed light on using a UPS (Unlimited Power supply) though there are limits. Even those who use a lap-tops, and smile when the power goes out, chances are they lose their internet connection as the modem/router relies on 110v. There are many UPS providers and each offers a wide range of models. It basically boils down to how much and/or how long do you wish to remain alive when the power goes out. The best features a UPS offers is surge protection and protection from power ups and downs. When selecting a UPS, you should select one that supplies you with software, so you can make usage of the built in features, and have an orderly shut down when you reach your battery limit.
I trust (for many years now) this company, and use the 1500 units (more than one).
Visit http://www.apc.com/shop/us/en/categories/power/uninterruptible-power-supply-ups-/computer-and-peripheral/back-ups-pro/_/N-1itz49c
Well that's about all folks, Mindblower!
"For the needy, not the greedy"
Moderators
Good reading!!!!!
Glad you found my ramblings "good reading", Mindblower!
"For the needy, not the greedy"
Totally forgotten gem. Feel sorry for omitting this software.
PhoneTray
There are three versions to keep everyone happy. PhoneTray Dialup or PhoneTray (which are both FREE) and PhoneTray Pro which works on the pulse line. I started with the FREE version before purchasing the Pro. Yes, for the service to work, your computer must remain on. The monitor can be switched off or be in sleep mode.
Besides being a software program which helps block Telemarking calls (and much much more), you additionally require a voice/data/fax modem or usb modem (which this company can provide), you also need Caller ID from your phone service provider (including VoIP phone service and/or MagicJack).
All possible questions are answered, including which countries are supported (you'll be surprised it's almost world wide).
So even if you are just curious, visit http://www.phonetray.com/ and see what you've been missing, Mindblower!
"For the needy, not the greedy"
Hey, Mindblower!
I just wanted to thank you for your contributions. They are a great help to our readers.
(and to me)
Richard
Just added one more Security software to my pick list. It's Heimdal Agent and covers loopholes no one else does (from what I discovered). The complete description is right here on the DCT blog (where I won this fantastic gem), Mindblower!
"For the needy, not the greedy"
Updated, revised some of the software.
AanonymoX and NoScript removed and replaced by AdGuard, Mindblower!
"For the needy, not the greedy"
Earlier this year, I removed Heimdal Agent. Found personal problems with it, and decided to let it go. Malwarebytes is now working on both my computers.
I also should mention that the VPN I use (and have been using for several years now - while trying out several others) is CyberGhost. I keep getting great discounts come renew time, so there is no need to look elsewhere. The software works, and unlike many others, has that important KILL switch. There is a link in the VPN section which compares almost every VPN on the market. As with all comparisons, take it with a grain of salt, so to speak, Mindblower!
"For the needy, not the greedy"
1 Guest(s)
