Software Reviews

by alnjk01

The reviews and opinions below are posted by SnapFiles visitors. They do not necessarily reflect our opinion, and are solely based on the experience of individual users.

Freeware
98/ME/2000/XP

Simply the best

MuralPix version 1.07

Interface: 5
Features: 5
Ease of use: 5
Value: 5
Overall:

Relatively small footprint,easy on system resources,very stable and easy to use on the default settings. Basically this takes any wallpaper and frames it in an corresponding pattern,color,etc. Even an unattractive wallpaper will look good using this. As a changer it is superb with many options.

Review date: Jun 08, 2008

Freeware
XP/Vista

Frustrating

Comodo Internet Security version 3.0.14.276

Interface: 2
Features: 4
Ease of use: 2
Value: 3
Overall:

Have used version 2.4 along with every beta version of 3.0 up to and including the latest. All through this software journey I had to uninstall the present version in order to install the latest? I have also noticed anomalies that make me wonder, i.e. the final beta was approx. 33mb and then the final ended up being 9mb in size? In summary I would not recommend this firewall based upon the following; sometimes forgets settings,cannot pass its own firewall test!, very extensive and confusing multiple panel settings,poor support from Comodo's staff,etc..

Review date: Jan 01, 2008

Freeware
NT/2000/XP

Found nothing more powerful.

Advanced Process Termination version 2.1

Interface: 2
Features: 2
Ease of use: 5
Value: 5
Overall:

Tiny application with no installation required. I've tried numerous applications for terminating processes but none were able to terminate some of the driver/kernel related processes. However this application did!

Review date: Oct 30, 2007

Freeware
Win (All)

Surprising

Comodo BOClean version 4.25

Interface: 2
Features: 3
Ease of use: 5
Value: 5
Overall:

Tiny footprint,light to medium system resource usage and very stable. First of all Boclean uses part signatures and part behavioral analysis for its detection method. I found that if I never updated the signatures it still protected. I performed extensive testing on Boclean against a variety of malware along with testing against other well known very good antispyware applications. To my surprise Boclean stopped all malware dead in their tracks prior to executing! Also it beat out or equaled the other applications. But it outstanding feature is the way it halted and eliminated intrusions!

Review date: Oct 30, 2007

Freeware
Win XP

Interesting.

RockXP version 4.0 beta

Interface: 3
Features: 3
Ease of use: 5
Value: 5
Overall:

Tiny footprint and no install. Program performs exactly as stated. As a side note I've used this program to test various security programs to see if it would trigger any kind of alert and/or notification. Interesting results!

Review date: Aug 31, 2007

Freeware
98/ME/2000/XP/Vista

Easiest of the bunch.

IcoFX version 1.5

Interface: 3
Features: 4
Ease of use: 4
Value: 5
Overall:

Small to medium footprint,stable and virtually no system resource usage. Out of all the icon applications this one I found to be the easiest to use thanks to the very good help file.

Review date: Aug 26, 2007

Freeware
98/ME/2000/XP

Simplicity

BurnCDCC version 2.0a

Interface: 3
Features: 3
Ease of use: 5
Value: 5
Overall:

Tiny and no install needed. Erases disks and burns iso images period. Has various writing speeds. Nothing fancy but works great most of the time. A burner that anyone can feel comfortable using.

Review date: Aug 25, 2007

Freeware
Win (All)

Best of breed, free or shareware!

TakeStock version 0.15d

Interface: 5
Features: 5
Ease of use: 5
Value: 5
Overall:

Been using this application since day one. No install needed,virtually no system resource usage and rock solid stability. A very well written program even from its first version. Logically laid out and extremely easy to use. Every feature a person could need on a application such as this is incorporated. As a bonus since no install needed data can be easily transfered to multiple pc's or on a usb flash player.

Review date: Aug 24, 2007

Freeware
Win (All)

Small display

WeatherMate version 2.9

Interface: 2
Features: 2
Ease of use: 4
Value: 2
Overall:

Comparatively to other weather programs the footprint is large,system resource usage is excessive and the program is slow on load and update. The weather information displayed is typical with a small doppler weather display. I have recommended this program for one reason. The program is contradictory whereas it has a very small display which would be an issue for someone with poor eyesight however the program can speak the weather which makes it ideal for someone with poor eyesight!

Review date: Aug 22, 2007

Freeware
2000/XP

One of the greatest programs.

BartPE version 3.1.10a

Interface: 5
Features: 5
Ease of use: 2
Value: 5
Overall:

Not easy to assemble. Not easy to learn. Not easy to navigate. However with various plugins installed, no program can do a better job for trouble shooting,making backup images,emergency internet browsing,etc.. Think of this as Linux but in a windows environment.

Review date: Aug 20, 2007

Freeware
2000/XP/2003/Vista

Powerful

KillProcess version 2.42

Interface: 4
Features: 3
Ease of use: 4
Value: 4
Overall:

Medium footprint,stable and low system resource usage. Does what it says and does it well. Along with being able to terminate processes it has the ability to resurrect. Found that this program is able to kill processes that all other free task managers could not. And of course those other task manager programs were far superior to the windows application!

Review date: Aug 08, 2007

Free Trial ($19.99)
NT/2000/XP

Slight edge on competitor.

Web Replay version 1.8

Interface: 3
Features: 4
Ease of use: 4
Value: 4
Overall:

Tried the free version which is limited to ten passwords. The footprint is medium in size and is easy on the system resources. Stability was adequate. The program comes with toolbar and/or taskbar icon. The slight edge I give is for two things. One, the program comes complete with install on harddrive and/or usb. Two, you can have the program perform a sort of scripting whereas it will record your login sequence. That is to say if you need to log into a site using more than one login page then it will accomplish this. After wards giving you one click access to that site. Security seems to be very good. And the toolbar is not cluttered. The one thing I didn't like about program is after a uninstall it will leave traces all over the pc!

Review date: Jul 29, 2007

Free Trial ($26.95)
XP/2003/Vista

One of two of the best.

Returnil Virtual System 2008 Premium Edition version 1.62

Interface: 3
Features: 4
Ease of use: 5
Value: 5
Overall:

Returnil offers this software for free now on their website. Footprint is small,system resource usage is minimal and stability doesn't seem to be an issue. Very clean install and uninstalls. Performs perfectly in the virtual mode. It protects the main system partition only. Noticed no leakage of data,files,etc.. Also now the virtual mode can be activated without a reboot. There is also an independent virtual drive that can be mounted on reboot to store items to save while in the virtual mode. However I have noticed that the virtual drive plays havoc on the system defrag in terms of fragmented files. I didn't look into this thoroughly though because the software worked perfectly without it plus I already have a separate partition for storage.

Review date: Jul 29, 2007

Freeware
Win (All)

Does the job

Dariks Boot and Nuke (DBAN) version 1.0.7

Interface: 3
Features: 3
Ease of use: 5
Value: 5
Overall:

Cleans the hard drive thoroughly and performs the operation very fast.

Review date: Jul 17, 2007

Freeware
2000/XP/Vista

The best of its kind, free or shareware.

DriveImage XML version 1.21

Interface: 4
Features: 5
Ease of use: 4
Value: 5
Overall:

Have been using this off and on for awhile now. It is very stable,small footprint and resource friendly. This program really shines when coupled with a live cd application. If your only running one operating system on your hard drive you can format your partition and restore your entire exact system from the live disk! Otherwise you would do the same thing without a live disk if your running multiple operating systems. Of course like any other program that performs complex operations you should read the help files first.

Review date: Jul 17, 2007

Freeware
2000/XP

Just a direct upload to gmail account.

Gmail Drive version 1.0.10

Interface: 2
Features: 1
Ease of use: 4
Value: 2
Overall:

I've been using this for almost a year now. You use to be able to upload and download files directly through your gdrive. However now it only works for uploading. If you want to retrieve files you have to log into your gmail account. In summary I'd have to say that it is easier than emailing an attachment and does provide for a convenient storage area.

Review date: Jul 15, 2007

Freeware
NT/2000/XP

Excellent for what it is.

ServiWin version 1.31

Interface: 4
Features: 4
Ease of use: 5
Value: 5
Overall:

The very quickest way to be able to see all drivers and services on a pc on two panels. No install necessary and it provides a multitude of information,i.e. version info,startups,dependencies,etc. along with being able to pause,stop,disable,boot,etc.

Review date: Jul 02, 2007

Freeware
2000/XP/2003/Vista

Fast

JkDefrag version 3.16

Interface: 2
Features: 2
Ease of use: 5
Value: 5
Overall:

I started using this on my Vista machine after I read an independent test report that pitted this against most of the other free defrag applications but also the major shareware ones. To the testers surprise this application proved to be better than most of all the other applications! Aside from this the application is not very pretty but needs no installation,works very well on vista and xp and is extremely fast.

Review date: Jun 25, 2007

Freeware
2000/XP/Vista

Quirky

Daphne version 1.30

Interface: 3
Features: 4
Ease of use: 2
Value: 2
Overall:

First impression is that this program is very nice and thorough. However after you use it awhile you discover things about it that are not so nice. For example I could not get the hot keys to work consistently no matter what combination! Next I noticed that the apply button for the specific settings would not work! Note: I uninstalled this and reinstalled and still the same results.

Review date: Jun 18, 2007

Freeware
98/ME/2000/XP/2003/Vista

Excellent

ieSpell version 2.2.0.647

Interface: 4
Features: 5
Ease of use: 5
Value: 5
Overall:

Medium footprint,little to no system resource usage,very easy and convenient to use and now very stable. Works well on Vista too.

Review date: Jun 17, 2007

Freeware
2000/XP/2003/Vista

Very good

Androsa FileProtector version 1.2

Interface: 4
Features: 3
Ease of use: 5
Value: 4
Overall:

Small footprint,uses very little resources,seems stable,very easy to use and is one of the very few that works well with Vista!

Review date: Jun 08, 2007

Freeware
Win (All)

Best and easiest boot manager

EasyBCD version 1.6

Interface: 4
Features: 5
Ease of use: 5
Value: 5
Overall:

Easy install and small footprint. Excellent boot manager for Vista,Linux,XP,etc. Easy to configure and has excellent help files.Used it to configure 3 operating systems on one pc. Note: You naturally have to know what your doing when configuring for multiple operating systems especially Vista and Linux.

Review date: Jun 08, 2007

Freeware
2000/XP/Vista

Under-rated

ThreatFire version 2.0

Interface: 3
Features: 3
Ease of use: 5
Value: 5
Overall:

Medium footprint,uses very little system resources,and very stable. Have been using this for months now. It is totally unobtrusive and is probably one of the best preventative security applications one could have. In independent testing along with my own; it has beaten out most anti-spyware applications free or paid! Additionally the application needs no constant updating. I would gladly give this program a 5 rating across the board except for its lack luster interface and no bell or whistles features panel. But the bottom line should be "who cares",because what the application does is protect and that it does extremely well!

Review date: Apr 21, 2007

Freeware
Win (All)

Best of breed

AM-DeadLink version 3.0

Interface: 3
Features: 4
Ease of use: 4
Value: 4
Overall:

Small footprint,easy on system resources and stable. Very easy to use. This program I found to be the best of its kind out of many I tested throughout the web. However it is not perfect so double check bad links when it finds one.

Review date: Apr 12, 2007

Freeware
XP/Vista

Excellent backup for essential drivers

DriverMax version 2.1

Interface: 3
Features: 3
Ease of use: 5
Value: 5
Overall:

Does exactly what it says and does it simply and well. Backs up the drivers that are needed for the operating system along some non system ones. As an example; backed up with drivermax, performed a system format,reinstalled xp. Then reinstalled the drivers using drivermax and all important drivers were installed with no issues. This program did what others I have tried could not do well. That is to say easily,seamlessly and with no problems or confusion!

Review date: Feb 11, 2007

Freeware
2000/XP/2003/Vista

One of the best.

Spyware Terminator version 1.7.0.918

Interface: 5
Features: 5
Ease of use: 4
Value: 5
Overall:

Have been using this now for about seven months. Medium footprint,easy on system resources and very stable. Probably the most logically arranged panel interfaces of any anti-spyware program! Scanning is relatively fast with good detection rates. The hips portion is as good as any around. The avclam integration is a nice addition as a first or second line av defense. Updates are minimal in schedule and sizes. In summary this is an excellent free program (one of the very few with realtime protection) but like anything else you should not expect it to be a cure all. Additionally you have to take the time to learn all the various settings/options or else you'll be disappointed with the program out of ignorance.

Review date: Feb 08, 2007

Freeware
2000/XP/2003/Vista

Bloated

PC Tools AntiVirus Free Edition version 3.1

Interface: 3
Features: 4
Ease of use: 2
Value: 2
Overall:

Very large footprint as compared to similar applications,excessive system resource usage while scanning or not! Relatively speedy scanning but base file seems small,as compared to others. Can't verify the effectiveness of the protection but for the processing power used by this program in its general protection mode I would not recommend this application.

Review date: Jan 07, 2007

Freeware
Win (All)

Erratic

Link200 version 3.2.0.2

Interface: 2
Features: 1
Ease of use: 2
Value: 2
Overall:

Small footprint,slow scanning and rather high system resource usage for a program like this! My experience with this program was a constant stop and start process or just stop period? Many times I had to use my task manager to shut it down. I have tried similar programs with no issues so I do not believe it's my pc. The bottom line is there are better free programs like this out there.

Review date: Oct 24, 2006

Freeware
Win (All)

One of the best.

a-squared Free version 2.0.0.310

Interface: 3
Features: 4
Ease of use: 5
Value: 4
Overall:

Been using this for well over a year now. Rather slow but extensive scanning along with frequent updates. Does have convenient scanning from the context menu. In independent testings A2 performed better than most programs (freeware and shareware) for detection and removal rates for trojans and malware. However it does require heavy system resource usage for startup and scanning.

Review date: Oct 22, 2006

Freeware
Win XP

You will learn to type.

TypingTutor version 2.0

Interface: 2
Features: 3
Ease of use: 3
Value: 3
Overall:

The most demanding typing program that I have ever tried and I have tried at least a dozen! This program will not let you proceed through the lessons unless you score almost perfect on the lesson your on and also acknowledge your progress report before starting another lesson. No jumping around allowed with this program! Additionally the program tells you if your too slow,too inaccurate,etc. The program is excellent for giving you a detailed feedback on all aspects of your progress along with how many hours a day you must practice. Note: there is a misprint on one of the keyboard graphics whereas the y and z keys are misplaced. In summary this is as close to having a real person (a very stern one at that) right there teaching you.

Review date: Oct 18, 2006

Freeware
98/ME/2000/XP/2003/Vista

Very good so far.

Free Registry Defrag version 2.21

Interface: 5
Features: 3
Ease of use: 5
Value: 3
Overall:

Nice to have an analysis before deciding to defrag or not. The program does perform a quick analysis and defrag. Have used this a few times on a couple of pc's with no issues resulting from. I feel what makes this a standout as compared to other defrag programs is its clean interface and analysis function.

Review date: Oct 12, 2006

Free Trial ($15.00)
Win (All)

Could be best of breed? however!

Eusing Internet Window Washer version 1.8

Interface: 4
Features: 4
Ease of use: 5
Value: 4
Overall:

Small footprint and low memory usage. Very thorough and easily understandable cleanings. Well laid out panels with many options. Additionally this program contains an option that most freeware and shareware cleaning programs do not have and that is automatic cleaning at various time intervals,i.e. every 15min.,30min.,etc. In summary overall this is a very nice program. However,whenever this application is started you will always be presented with a obtrusive donation nag screen which you have to click on! No way to disable this without paying the $15.00 donation.

Review date: Oct 09, 2006

Freeware
98/ME/2000/XP

Simplicity

Ping Plotter 1 version 1.10

Interface: 3
Features: 2
Ease of use: 4
Value: 3
Overall:

Tiny footprint and low system resource usage. This program just does traceroutes and displays a nice simple graph and line item details for each hop. Very easily understandable results.

Review date: Oct 08, 2006

Freeware
Win (All)

Complete network tool.

3d Traceroute version 2.1.8.18

Interface: 4
Features: 5
Ease of use: 3
Value: 4
Overall:

No install needed, moderate system resource usage and sound! Fast executions. An entire network application for debugging,etc. Has traceroute,dns lookups,port scanning, telnet client,e-mail header analyzer,etc. Note: simple traceroutes can be shown in 3d or in a regular panel list.

Review date: Oct 06, 2006

Freeware
98/ME/2000/XP/2003/Vista

Good instructional/reference software

AcronymGenie version 4.2

Interface: 3
Features: 3
Ease of use: 5
Value: 4
Overall:

Small footprint,stable and very little system resource usage. Basically the program is a list of all the various internet and computer acronyms. Additionally the program contains a long list of internet expressions and emotions which is great for someone just learning e-mail,messaging,etc.

Review date: Oct 06, 2006

Freeware
NT/2000/XP

From a trusted software developer.

RootkitRevealer version 1.7

Interface: 2
Features: 2
Ease of use: 4
Value: 4
Overall:

Tiny footprint and no install needed. Scan is fast and from what I tested accurate. However as has been said you have to know what the results mean! It does come with a help file though.

Review date: Oct 05, 2006

Freeware
98/ME/2000/XP

Ok only.

Software Collector version 1.02

Interface: 3
Features: 2
Ease of use: 1
Value: 2
Overall:

Not much to say about this application except that it's another piece of software to keep track of other software. It's a good idea except for the fact that you always have to keep inputting data into a piece of software instead of just using word or notepad.

Review date: Oct 05, 2006

Freeware
98/ME/2000/XP/Vista

One of the best.

Moffsoft FreeCalc version 1.2.06

Interface: 5
Features: 4
Ease of use: 5
Value: 5
Overall:

Tiny footprint,low system resource usage and very stable. One of two of the best free tape less calculator software applications. This one also comes in a shareware version which adds a ton of extra features.

Review date: Oct 04, 2006

Freeware
Win (All)

Accurate/inaccurate sometimes.

Rain Alerts version 1.1

Interface: 2
Features: 2
Ease of use: 3
Value: 2
Overall:

Small footprint,some system resource usage. Found that temperatures are anywhere from 0 to 19 degrees off!

Review date: Sep 30, 2006

Freeware
2000/XP/2003/Vista

A very good task manager.

DTaskManager version 1.47

Interface: 4
Features: 4
Ease of use: 5
Value: 5
Overall:

Small footprint,low on system resources and comes up a lot quicker than windows task manager. Additionally no install needed. Far superior to the windows task manager with extensive informational panels. One quirk as stated previously is the fact that the panel is not resizable?

Review date: Sep 28, 2006

Freeware
2000/XP/Vista

A well written program.

Cooliris Previews IE version 1.0

Interface: 4
Features: 4
Ease of use: 5
Value: 5
Overall:

No system resource usage,very stable,clean install and uninstall and it does not slow down nor interfere with browsing the net. Works great on all links and is very fast at doing it in an unobtrusive manner. The only interface would be the preference panel which is under the tools menu and is a very nice feature that allows for sizing the panels,turning the program on and off,etc.

Review date: Sep 23, 2006

Freeware
2000/XP

Great idea!

Browster version 2.0

Interface: 3
Features: 4
Ease of use: 5
Value: 3
Overall:

Not much system resource usage and it does not slow down nor interfere with browsing the net. Works great on all searches. The only but major issue I and others I know have had is in the program stability. Otherwise I would have rated this an overall of 5.

Review date: Sep 17, 2006

Freeware
2000/XP/Vista

Best of breed.

AxCrypt version 1.5.4.2

Interface: 3
Features: 5
Ease of use: 5
Value: 5
Overall:

Small footprint,low system resource usage and very stable. Convenient and simple to use. Thoughtfully laid out via drop down context menus. For encryption you couldn't ask for an easier application to use for your pc and for sending files or documents.

Review date: Sep 15, 2006

Freeware
Win (All)

Unique

OverDisk version 0.11 beta

Interface: 4
Features: 3
Ease of use: 3
Value: 3
Overall:

Small footprint and very little system resource usage. Very unique pie chart style design. Your able to explore every directory and file within each drive/partition. However what baffles me is the way the information is presented! Instead of being laid out in a summary type way you have to mouse over each and every section. Additionally being beta there is virtually no help file.

Review date: Jul 11, 2006

Freeware
Win (All)

Best of breed

JDiskReport version 1.25

Interface: 3
Features: 5
Ease of use: 5
Value: 5
Overall:

Relatively small footprint,stable and very easy on system resources. This program,unlike some others,gives very precise detailed system information that is easy to understand. It displayed files that I thought were long gone but were still on my system taking up space!

Review date: Jul 08, 2006

Freeware
Win (All)

Almost up to the minute.

Site Popper version 3.0

Interface: 3
Features: 4
Ease of use: 4
Value: 4
Overall:

Small footprint,low memory usage and appears stable. This program will give you almost up to the minute scrolling news,weather,sports,etc. presented by the top news organizations. Most are updated within a 5 to 20 minute timeframe of the present time!

Review date: Jun 25, 2006

Freeware
2000/XP

Unique and very good.

Gizmo5 version 2.0.0.174

Interface: 3
Features: 4
Ease of use: 5
Value: 5
Overall:

Large footprint but moderate on system resources. This application has some unique features such as a live call line for sports,stocks,entertainment,etc! Plus there's a live talk (chat type) room you can enter. It also has a network optimization test along with a separate echo test. These are only some of the many unique features on this phone. The program seems very stable and the voice quality is from good to excellent. Alas the program is for dialup or high speed connections and support is through their data base or through real techs.

Review date: Jun 19, 2006

Freeware
2000/XP/2003/Vista

Very stable

Firefly Internet Phone version 2.0.0 build 1195

Interface: 4
Features: 3
Ease of use: 4
Value: 4
Overall:

The unit has a nice simplified interface. The software itself doesn't seem to use a lot of system resources. The connections are always reliable with no voice breakups. The only con was the lengthy registration process. Also when talking to friends I did experience low volume no matter how much I adjusted. And I and my friends did experience echo/feedback.

Review date: Jun 15, 2006

Freeware
98/ME/2000/XP

Definitely a resource hog.

Yahoo! Messenger version 7.5

Interface: 3
Features: 5
Ease of use: 3
Value: 4
Overall:

Rather large footprint,bloated and as I said not easy on the system resources.It has an octopus like layout whereas its features expand everywhere! All that being said it has more features then anyone could possibly want. All the features seem very well done and the program itself is stable. Additionally it does have very good to excellent voice call quality. In conclusion it's amazing how Yahoo was able to put everything together and still keep performance and stability!

Review date: Jun 08, 2006

Freeware
98/ME/2000/XP/2003/Vista

Why have it?

Social Entertainment Network version 2.5

Interface: 2
Features: 2
Ease of use: 3
Value: 2
Overall:

I honestly don't understand the reason behind this program in this day and age with all the web based social networks? What this amounts to is a big chat room that uses your system resources! On top of that it's not really even a chat room but more of a dating network with a very small clientele base.

Review date: May 31, 2006

Freeware
2000/XP/2003/Vista

Simplicity

Spider Player version 1.58

Interface: 4
Features: 4
Ease of use: 5
Value: 5
Overall:

Relatively small footprint and easy on system resources. Seems very stable. Straightforward, logical layout makes it super easy to use. Plays many different formats. All main controls are either right on the front panel or in one simple dropdown menu.

Review date: May 31, 2006

Freeware
2000/XP/Vista

Variable voice!

Skype version 2.0.0.107

Interface: 3
Features: 3
Ease of use: 3
Value: 2
Overall:

Rather large footprint but moderate system resource usage. Pretty straightforward interface. Relatively easy to use. However voice quality is poor to good only. Stability while on a call is very intermittent.

Review date: May 31, 2006

Freeware
98/ME/2000/XP

Best voice quality so far

Google Talk version Beta

Interface: 3
Features: 3
Ease of use: 5
Value: 5
Overall:

Small in size,relatively easy on the system resources,logical layout,easy to install and compact interface. Voice quality is good to excellent. The program itself seems very stable. And connection stability while talking is good to excellent.

Review date: May 31, 2006

Freeware
Win (All)

Very logical

Back4Win version 5.0

Interface: 4
Features: 3
Ease of use: 3
Value: 4
Overall:

Have tried a bunch of these free backup programs. This one I find to be the best because of its small size,layout,logical operation and ease of use. There were some issues I did have on the restore, however, I don't know if it was me or the program? That being said I still like this program.

Review date: May 14, 2006

Freeware
98/ME/2000/XP/Vista

Slow scanning

SUPERAntiSpyware (Free Edition) version 3.1.1010

Interface: 3
Features: 3
Ease of use: 4
Value: 3
Overall:

The application has a medium footprint and doesn't take up many system resources. It has a pretty straightforward interface which is easy to navigate. However its scanning capabilities are the slowest that I have yet to encounter as compared to a dozen or so other anti-spyware and anti-trojan programs I have used!

Review date: May 07, 2006

Freeware
Win (All)

Fast definitions

Magical Jellybean Dictionary version 1.1

Interface: 1
Features: 3
Ease of use: 4
Value: 3
Overall:

Very small footprint. Takes little in system resources. Connects to the web using a variety of data bases for definitions. Performs this task extremely fast! Besides the definition it will download any other information associated with the word. Now the cons. Very dull interface. Does not correct spellings nor show usages for words. And no minimize icon nor help file on panel?

Review date: Apr 30, 2006

Freeware
Win (All)

Not useful today

EZ Checker version 2.5

Interface: 1
Features: 2
Ease of use: 2
Value: 2
Overall:

Small install. Works only intermittently and not at all on some web based accounts. There are more free programs out now that are far superior.

Review date: Apr 30, 2006

Free Trial ($30.00)
98/ME/2000/XP

Excellent, but

Atmosphere Deluxe version 5.4

Interface: 5
Features: 5
Ease of use: 5
Value: 4
Overall:

Probably the finest sound generating program out there. More features then you could ever want. Sounds are full and dynamic. Different environments are virtually unlimited. Along with rolling scenes on your desktop. Additionally the program lets you create your own scenarios of environments,music,etc. To summarize: this is like an entire recording studio with visuals! However being as complete as it is comes with a system resource price. The program is almost 70mb when installed. And it does take an enormous amount of system memory.

Review date: Apr 29, 2006

Free Trial ($29.95)
Win (All)

Price vs value?

Keylogger Killer version 1.5

Interface: 2
Features: 2
Ease of use: 4
Value: 1
Overall:

Tried this program for awhile. Being that I believed I had no keyloggers on my system it didn't show anything. However, I purposely installed some keyloggers and it still didn't detect anything? Aside from what I just said; there are some excellent programs out there that detect spyware,trojans,keyloggers,etc. all in one application for the same price or lower than this.

Review date: Apr 16, 2006

Freeware
98/ME/2000/XP/2003/Vista

Second best free one so far

Eusing Free Registry Cleaner version 1.0

Interface: 3
Features: 3
Ease of use: 5
Value: 4
Overall:

Small footprint and fast scanning. It is very nice that you can pick a section to scan. Did notice that it took multiple scans to complete?

Review date: Apr 12, 2006

Free Trial ($49.95)
2000/XP/2003/Vista

Best of breed

Genie Backup Manager Home Edition version 6.0

Interface: 4
Features: 5
Ease of use: 4
Value: 5
Overall:

Rather large footprint and does take up system resources. However,the program is relatively easy to use,fairly quick,very stable and probably the best of all backup programs. Specific features are that you can backup the smallest individual parts, whole sections or the entire system. And when you have to perform a restore you do not need the Genie software installed on your pc because all the backup files can be done in self executables.

Review date: Mar 21, 2006

Freeware
Win (All)

The best of the free

SIW version 1.55

Interface: 4
Features: 4
Ease of use: 5
Value: 5
Overall:

Probably the most thorough free or maybe even non-free application for displaying every part of the entire system, i.e. hardware,software,processes,etc. Will even show your passwords! Very easy to use internet explorer type interface.

Review date: Mar 21, 2006

Freeware
98/ME/2000/XP

Great phone

CQPhone version 2.4.04

Interface: 5
Features: 4
Ease of use: 5
Value: 5
Overall:

Excellent sound quality. Easy on system resources and very stable. Very simple,familiar and easy to use design. Note: have not used the video feature yet.

Review date: Mar 03, 2006

Free Trial ($25.00)
2000/XP/Vista

Best free sandbox type app.

Sandboxie version 2.25

Interface: 2
Features: 3
Ease of use: 4
Value: 4
Overall:

Small footprint and very light on system resources. Excellent for running various programs in an enclosed environment. Sort of non-existent interface and some stability and security issues.

Review date: Mar 03, 2006

Freeware
98/ME/2000/XP

Very good

Atmosphere Lite version 5.5

Interface: 5
Features: 4
Ease of use: 5
Value: 5
Overall:

I have used this version and the deluxe. Actually I prefer this over the deluxe. Great sounds in both, very realistic. Super flexibility with countless controls. Uses about one third of the system resources as the deluxe version. Very stable.

Review date: Feb 24, 2006

Freeware
98/ME/2000/XP/Vista

Excellent

UK`s Kalender version 1.3.4

Interface: 4
Features: 5
Ease of use: 5
Value: 5
Overall:

One of two of the best programs of its kind. No installation needed,small footprint,relatively low system resource usage and stable. Large interface for extremely easy viewing. All kinds of options available. Highly customizable. You can also setup an alarm using your own wav.file.

Review date: Feb 23, 2006

Freeware
2000/XP

A calendar!

TimeSentry version 2.5.2

Interface: 1
Features: 2
Ease of use: 3
Value: 1
Overall:

No installation needed however it's just a calendar with a bland interface and links to your notepad,calculator,etc.

Review date: Feb 22, 2006

Free Trial ($14.00)
Win (All)

Best of shareware

AcuteFinder version 1.3.1.7

Interface: 4
Features: 3
Ease of use: 4
Value: 4
Overall:

Straightforward usage in finding duplicate files. Stable,quick scanning and very good layout. Very informative instruction/warning notices. However as with any software like this you better know what your doing or else you could very easily destroy your operating system.

Review date: Feb 22, 2006

Free Trial ($39.00)
Win (All)

Colorful taskmanager

Security Task Manager version 1.6f

Interface: 3
Features: 2
Ease of use: 3
Value: 2
Overall:

Rates the services,programs and drivers that are running based upon? Does show cpu,memory,etc.,usages as well as detects registry changes. However there are quite a few free programs out that pretty much do what this one does. Some even do it much better minus the color coding.

Review date: Feb 21, 2006

Freeware
Win (All)

Good

Disktective version 4.0

Interface: 3
Features: 2
Ease of use: 5
Value: 3
Overall:

Does just what it says,shows what everything on your system is using for space.Also shows the breakdown of each item into its smaller components. Very fast,stable,no installation needed and informative.

Review date: Feb 12, 2006

Freeware
Win (All)

Bland

WebMail Alert version 1.56

Interface: 1
Features: 2
Ease of use: 2
Value: 2
Overall:

The good: no installation needed,tiny application size. The bad: not very intuitive, doesn't always work well (i.e. errors).

Review date: Feb 08, 2006

Freeware
NT/2000/XP

Irrational

Perfect Process version 1.1

Interface: 1
Features: 2
Ease of use: 1
Value: 2
Overall:

The program is layed out for someone to explore. Bits and pieces of operations/information/reports are scattered everywhere between two main panels.Its scanning is slow which is surprising considering how small the definition data base is and at the same time using alot of system resources? Additionally do not appreciate the popups of demo and to upgrade under the disguise of news! The shield operation has no explanation as to the specifics it shields,i.e.what it's shielding against in relationship to the areas it's shielding? And in conclusion there is no help file only their online forum!

Review date: Jan 28, 2006

Freeware
Win (All)

Second best

BitDefender Free Edition

Interface: 5
Features: 4
Ease of use: 5
Value: 4
Overall:

Very well layed out program. Relatively fast scanning,very stable,modest system resource usage and you can tell very well written. Additionally Bitdefender is rated very high in all anti-virus tests. This software would rate five stars except for the fact that Bitdefender says that there is no real time protection.

Review date: Jan 28, 2006

Freeware
2000/XP

Winsonar 2005

Winsonar version 4.01.04

Interface: 3
Features: 2
Ease of use: 2
Value: 2
Overall:

Very confusing layout and option choices. Not very stable. Nowadays there are much better free monitoring programs than this one.

Review date: Jan 27, 2006

Free Trial ($29.95)
2000/XP

A virtual machine

ShadowSurfer version 2.5

Interface: 3
Features: 2
Ease of use: 4
Value: 4
Overall:

Excellent program for those of us that like to tweak,download,test,etc. As an example;I installed a very large anti-virus program while in the shadowsurf enabled mode. Once I rebooted there was no indication that the anti-virus program was ever on my pc. However you must be careful to make sure that while your in the enabled mode that you do not want to keep anything (i.e.docs,notes,any settings in programs,etc.)that you changed because any changes what so ever will be reverted back once you reboot. Of course in the disabled mode your pc will once again be able to save everything including spyware,worms,etc.

Review date: Jan 25, 2006

Freeware
2000/XP/Vista

Better than anti-phishing software

McAfee SiteAdvisor version 1.0.0.16

Interface: 3
Features: 3
Ease of use: 5
Value: 5
Overall:

The program is excellent for weeding out malicious web sites along with giving the user relevant information about the sites. The program seemed very stable and gave a very clean install and uninstall. The reason for the uninstall is because of the memory usage that the program took up which I thought was excessive. At this time my memory requirements are all reserved for my security programs otherwise I would still be using this program.

Review date: Jan 24, 2006

Free Trial ($29.95)
98/ME/2000/XP/2003/Vista

All things to all people

Spyware Doctor version 3.5

Interface: 4
Features: 4
Ease of use: 4
Value: 3
Overall:

The software seems very stable with a speedy scanner. It is also well laid out with a good explanation of functions. Its detection rate seems good to very good although like every other software of this type it finds things that others do not and visa versa. Having said that it does try to be all things to all people whereas it implies that it protects against and finds almost everything! I myself prefer specialized programs for specific malware. As an example it does say that it removes rootkits. Well it didn't detect nor remove two that I had on my pc. As far as system resource usage, well during on-guard protection it used a small/moderate amount but with intermittent bursts of very large amounts! During scanning it uses more system resources than any other program of this type that I have used! And last, it is based on annual renewal which begs the question,"is it worth it" as compared to other programs that are not subscription based?

Review date: Jan 19, 2006

Freeware
98/ME/2000/XP/2003/Vista

Very good scanner

Spybot - S&D version 1.4

Interface: 3
Features: 4
Ease of use: 3
Value: 4
Overall:

Have been using this program on and off for over 3 years now. Scanning capabilities are very good to excellent. The added features are another big plus. However the program does have a large footprint,does use system resources,is not laid out as well as it could be (i.e.confusing),scanning is somewhat slow,results are not always explicit and stability is sometimes an issue.

Review date: Dec 30, 2005

Freeware
Win (All)

Excellent magnifier software

Magnifier version 2.0

Interface: 3
Features: 3
Ease of use: 5
Value: 5
Overall:

Small footprint,stable and easy on system resources. Can magnify to various strengths. The window can be moved to any position. Unlike some other magnifiers,this one can be used on any document,web site,program,etc.that's on the pc.

Review date: Dec 29, 2005

Freeware
98/ME/2000/XP

Useful for a second opinion scan

Webroot SpyAudit version 4.0

Interface: 1
Features: 1
Ease of use: 4
Value: 3
Overall:

No real interface nor features to speak of. The program first downloads updated files. Then the scanning starts after which the results are shown on the Webroot web site. I only recommend this software for the following reasons: no install needed and I trust the results of Webroot above and beyond all other anti-spyware companies based upon their spy sweeper software.

Review date: Dec 29, 2005

Freeware
98/ME/2000/XP/2003/Vista

Simple to use.

EncryptOnClick version 1.1

Interface: 4
Features: 3
Ease of use: 5
Value: 5
Overall:

Rather large footprint and memory usage but cannot get any simpler to encrypt and decrypt. Functions on individual files or total contents of any folders. Simple password usage for encrypting and decrypting. You don't even have to access the program to decrypt, just double click on the file. Seems to work on any format. Shows a lock icon on an encrypted file which is a nice reminder.

Review date: Dec 28, 2005

Freeware
98/ME/2000/XP/2003/Vista

Handy to have around

WinPatrol version 9.8.1.0

Interface: 3
Features: 3
Ease of use: 4
Value: 3
Overall:

Been using this for a few years now. It's easy on system resources,very stable and very informative. However I believe that with the advent of many free sophisticated security programs out now that Winpatrol is being left behind. I still have it installed on my system but only for its informative value and for process control. That being said,other security software that I'm running gives me notification on an intrusion way before Winpatrol does. I believe that in this day and age of advanced malware,trojans,etc. it's more important then ever to have constant monitoring (not periodic) and fast (i.e. instant) notification.

Review date: Dec 17, 2005

Freeware
Win (All)

Best of breed

Google Toolbar version 2.0.114.6

Interface: 5
Features: 4
Ease of use: 5
Value: 5
Overall:

Very clean, slim (as compared to others)toolbar with all the essential features that one would want. Relatively small,well written and very stable program. Google is my main search engine so the toolbar sets the IE default to Google for me. Any of the options can be set to off. And if anyone is concerned about security issues (i.e. automatic communication with the Google site) well as Google indicates, only if any of the productivity options are checked will there be a linkup with their site. And last, Googles popup blocker has been rated one of the best by independent lab tests.

Review date: Dec 17, 2005

Freeware
Win (All)

Very good

MailWasher Free version 5.0.19

Interface: 3
Features: 5
Ease of use: 4
Value: 4
Overall:

The best program that I've come across for sieving through e-mails. The program is small,easy on system resources,fairly stable and easy to use once setup is completed. I find the best part of this program (that other free ones don't have) is its ability to bounce messages back to the sender or domain.

Review date: Dec 17, 2005

Freeware
98/ME/2000/XP

Just ok

FastStone Player version 3.2

Interface: 4
Features: 3
Ease of use: 1
Value: 2
Overall:

Small,lightweight,very nice interface. However,found it very difficult to play anything because of its inability to play a file or within one. Once you play a video the screen resolution is not up to par with other players. There are far better free players out there.

Review date: Dec 17, 2005

Freeware
2000/XP/Vista

The best free scanner

Ad-Aware Free version 1.06 SE Pers.

Interface: 5
Features: 3
Ease of use: 5
Value: 5
Overall:

Used this now for over 2 years. Easy on system resources,small footprint,very stable, relatively fast scanning,best skins and the easiest to use and update. Very good detection and cleaning capabilities especially on registry intrusions.

Review date: Dec 15, 2005

Free Trial ($29.95)
Win (All)

Deep scanning

SpyCatcher version 3.5

Interface: 3
Features: 4
Ease of use: 3
Value: 3
Overall:

Program footprint is very large and uses a lot of system resources. Seems to be a very stable program with fast scanning capabilities. The program integrates completely into the operating system. I know this because on installation it triggers many parts of my "intrusion detection software" that other programs would not. That being said,it scans deeper than any other anti-spyware software that I know of. The program will find and clean malware and traces of malware that most others won't. However, I find it difficult navigating the layout,i.e. getting to specific features/sections easily and I don't like the way the program seems to dominate my operating system. Examples of the latter would be; I cannot turn off the program so I can use it just for spyware scans,it needs an internet connection frequently,it overrides some of my system protection software,etc.

Review date: Dec 10, 2005

Freeware
Win (All)

So far very good.

ArovaxShield version 1.2.267

Interface: 4
Features: 3
Ease of use: 5
Value: 5
Overall:

Been using this now for over a month. It is easy on system resources,seems very stable,nice simplistic interface and easy to use options. The detection response is fantastic compared to many other shield type programs as well as "intrusion detection software" programs that I've used. Actually sometimes it beats my present IDS shareware program on notification responses! Also I have to admit that I have tried testing out its capabilities and it did notify every time it should have. Its log also works very well giving detailed results. The only weak point I noticed is its cookie tracking shield which has missed on occasion. Alas; it is good to see software like this that isn't bloated, performs well and keeps things simple enough so anyone can use it and won't feel intimidated.

Review date: Dec 09, 2005

Freeware
98/ME/2000/XP

Straightforward

X-RayPC Spyware Process Analyzer version 1.001

Interface: 4
Features: 2
Ease of use: 5
Value: 3
Overall:

Small,lightweight,no installation needed and fast. Lists just what is running on your machine. Very easy to understand line item descriptions. Rates each line item,i.e. good,bad,etc.. Geared towards someone who is very familiar with their pc.

Review date: Dec 08, 2005

Freeware
98/ME/2000/XP

Well written

CoolWebShredder (CWShredder) version 2.15

Interface: 3
Features: 3
Ease of use: 5
Value: 3
Overall:

Super fast scanning,low resource usage and no installation required. A product that comes from one of the best anti-virus companies around. Great to have around just in case. Note: the program is very good however it does only look for one thing; so my ratings are based upon that.

Review date: Dec 07, 2005

Freeware
Win XP

Didn't work for me?

Windows Media Player version 10

Interface: 4
Features: 4
Ease of use: 3
Value: 2
Overall:

Upgraded to this from version 9 and all of a sudden no more streaming audio. Tried to troubleshoot but to no avail. Uninstalled and then got streaming back? Reinstalled,same situation as before. Uninstalled again and got streaming back again? New interface however also extra commercialization,i.e. msn tunes to buy. Note: out of all the players that I have tried (about 9 of them)this one (wmp version10)is the only one that has given me an issue???

Review date: Dec 04, 2005

Freeware
Win (All)

My second favorite

Bayden PopupPopper version 1.3b

Interface: 3
Features: 3
Ease of use: 5
Value: 5
Overall:

Tiny,fast,system resource friendly,and very effective. Used this program the longest out of about 12+ others I've tried. Note: I would still be using this if it wasn't for my built-in toolbar popup blocker which is just as effective.

Review date: Nov 30, 2005

Free Trial ($34.95)
2000/XP/Vista

Good shareware portfolio program

TradeTrakker version 2.15

Interface: 3
Features: 4
Ease of use: 3
Value: 3
Overall:

Stable, small, easy on system resources. Ease of use is good once you do your portfolio setup. However panel navigation is not as straightforward as it could be. Layout could be better, some columns are too busy and color coding should be darker shades, i.e. more distinct for better separation of equities. Finally I would have to say that this program is fine for end-of-day usage but not for real time market sessions.

Review date: Nov 29, 2005

Freeware
98/ME/2000/XP

A very good player

Zoom Player Standard version 4.51

Interface: 4
Features: 4
Ease of use: 4
Value: 4
Overall:

Fast,relatively stable,small program (not blotted),but does take some system resources. Best viewing screen I've come across yet. Tons of options/tweaks but presented in a complex array. Documentation as well as web site are also complex. Loads of skinning options. Skins range from complex,i.e. lots of controls,requiring installation,etc. to simplistic. Can play most formats. Note: ease of use can be very good and straight forward if your using a simple skin and you don't need to adjust the settings.

Review date: Nov 29, 2005

Freeware
Win (All)

Super for text docs.

Mince version 1.02

Interface: 3
Features: 3
Ease of use: 5
Value: 5
Overall:

Tiny,stable and the easiest program of its type that I have ever used (and I've used about 14 of them). Also the program has a nice feature whereas what ever you encrypt shows up with a lock icon; nice reminder. Decrypting is just a matter of a double click and password. HOWEVER, the program only works on documents with the file extension .txt.

Review date: Nov 29, 2005

Freeware
2000/XP/Vista

Very good process monitor

Process Explorer version 9.25

Interface: 3
Features: 3
Ease of use: 4
Value: 4
Overall:

Used this program for about a year. The program was quick,stable but seemed to consume a lot of resources for its size. Through time I honestly couldn't find a reason for using it;considering that I always have windows task manager and that a lot of the newer security programs are incorporating the same monitoring functions.

Review date: Nov 28, 2005

Freeware
Win (All)

Overall very good

Windows CleanUp! version 4.0

Interface: 2
Features: 3
Ease of use: 4
Value: 4
Overall:

Used this program for quite awhile. Very quick, and thorough. However on my system there seemed to be intermittent stability issues! As of now I have found other (newer) programs that are completely stable and with equal or better cleaning capabilities. I would have to say though that this is my second favorite cleanup program as compared to most others that I have used/tested.

Review date: Nov 28, 2005

Freeware
2000/XP/2003/Vista

Second best

ePrompter version 2.0 SR83

Interface: 3
Features: 3
Ease of use: 4
Value: 4
Overall:

Very good program for checking web based and pop3 e-mail accounts along with sending,forwarding and reply. Very extensive list of web based domains. However its cons are as follows: Slow while checking, program hard to terminate while in operation and most importantly,mail window cannot be enlarged.

Review date: Nov 28, 2005

Freeware
Win (All)

Great program

POP Peeper version 2.4.2

Interface: 3
Features: 4
Ease of use: 4
Value: 5
Overall:

I can't say enough good things about the "workings" of this program. It's small,quick and very stable. In my experience there is no better free program of its kind out there. Note: I use version 2.3.5 but the latest is 2.4. On the latest version you are also able to send mail. However I like the ability to toggle between my old and new mail which you cannot do on the new version. Both versions to me are excellent. It's just a matter of preference.

Review date: Nov 26, 2005

Freeware
98/ME/2000/XP

Could be great?

SpywareGuard version 2.2

Interface: 2
Features: 2
Ease of use: 5
Value: 3
Overall:

The program does do what it says, is very stable and is very easy to use. However I find that its real time scanner uses too many resources for its size. Additionally I wonder about its lack of updates and its "work in process" (as stated by its programmers)? That being said, I have found other programs that do a better job.

Review date: Nov 26, 2005

Freeware
98/ME/2000/XP/Vista

Good tool

TrendMicro HijackThis version 1.99.1

Interface: 3
Features: 4
Ease of use: 3
Value: 4
Overall:

Have used hijackthis on and off for about two years. In my experience I have noticed that it works great on a stable system however if you should have system related issues then the program starts getting quirky,i.e. resets,etc. That being said,it is a very good registry tool for detecting what should be on your system and what should not be. As said previously, you have to know what your doing and able to recognize entries. Otherwise you could create issues that you never had in the first place. Additionally it offers excellent supplemental tools such as host file and process managers,etc.

Review date: Nov 26, 2005

Freeware
98/ME/2000/XP

Excellent

Convert version 4.10

Interface: 5
Features: 5
Ease of use: 5
Value: 5
Overall:

Small, lightweight, no installation needed. Super reference tool. Coverts in a flash. I would think that everything that is measurable is included in this software.

Review date: Nov 15, 2005

Freeware
XP/Vista

Extensive

TheSage version 106

Interface: 2
Features: 3
Ease of use: 3
Value: 4
Overall:

More words, definitions and usages than any other free dictionary software out there. Very stable. Not as user friendly or well laid out as some others. This software is really a wordsmiths dictionary more so than for the day to day person looking up an occasional definition and/or correct spelling. If you're a poor speller to begin with, then this dictionary is not for you. Likewise if your someone who wants to dig deep into definitions and usages then this dictionary will suit you well.

Review date: Nov 15, 2005

Freeware
NT/2000/XP

Quirky

DiamondCS RegistryProt version 2.0

Interface: 2
Features: 2
Ease of use: 4
Value: 3
Overall:

Installed and uninstalled it at least a dozen times or more. Can't really figure out if it is effective or not? Sometimes when I would not allow a registry change it would just keep popping up over and over again asking me the same question. To me the program was more of an annoyance than a help.

Review date: Nov 13, 2005

Freeware
98/ME/2000/XP/2003/Vista

Very impressive

RegSeeker version 1.45.0505

Interface: 4
Features: 5
Ease of use: 5
Value: 5
Overall:

Been using this program for over a year now. Always made backups but Never had to recapture my deletions!!! This is the only registry program that I really feel safe about using. The program is well written, stand alone, very stable and contains a lot of options/tweaks for its size!

Review date: Nov 13, 2005

Freeware
Win (All)

Best so far

AnalogX CookieWall version 1.01

Interface: 2
Features: 3
Ease of use: 5
Value: 5
Overall:

Tiny program. Very stable and light on resources. Does just what it says (and does it well), i.e. removes,keeps or deletes cookies or any combination there of. It's one of those programs that you just forget that it's running.

Review date: Nov 13, 2005

Freeware
Win XP

Great big program

Windows Defender version BETA Build 1.0.615

Interface: 3
Features: 4
Ease of use: 2
Value: 2
Overall:

Impressive with all its bells and whistles. However I would like to see an anti-spyware program Keep Out spyware instead of cleaning up spyware that it let in. Huge footprint which takes up a good amount of system resources. Slow to load,launch and to update. Lots of tweak like features which makes ease of use a mute point. Detection and cleanup were bettered by three other free antispyware programs that I tested it against. Programs with one third of the footprint this has! There are lots of other free anti-spyware programs out there which are based upon simplicity and effectiveness. The whole idea behind a program like this is not show off how it can cleanup after the fact or how many individual tweaks(sections of the system) it can protect but to prevent intrusion of the spyware in the first place. For marketing I give this software 5 stars but for overall complexity and effectiveness 2.

Review date: Nov 12, 2005

Freeware
2000/XP/Vista

Best of breed

CCleaner version 1.24.180

Interface: 4
Features: 5
Ease of use: 5
Value: 5
Overall:

Cleans extremely well,very thorough and extensive,very stable,light on system resources,fast,very easily updatable and has lots of options(including turning-off cleaning of "pre-fetch data",etc.). Also performs registry cleanups with backup which works very well when I compared it to standalone registry cleaners.

Review date: Nov 07, 2005

Freeware
2000/XP/Vista

Better than ever

Avira AntiVir Personal version 6.32.00.51

Interface: 3
Features: 4
Ease of use: 4
Value: 5
Overall:

Have been using antivir for about a year now. It has been the only free anti virus program that really has protected my pc. I have from time to time tried the others. Most were very bloated, took up loads of system resources, didnot protect as well but had attractive interfaces (big deal). Antivir does take the smallest amount of system resources, is not bloated, protects and is fairly fast at scanning. The newest version of antivir NOW offers quick,small update downloads versus the 2,3 and 4mb updates it used to have. I can say that antivir isn't the best for wiping out a virus already on your pc however it keeps them out in the first place!

Review date: Nov 06, 2005

Free Trial ($29.95)
2000/XP/Vista

Great program

Spy Sweeper version 4.5

Interface: 5
Features: 5
Ease of use: 5
Value: 3
Overall:

This is a very well thought out program. It has an excellent interface combined with ease of use. On detections it is probably one of if not the best. It does take system resources however that is the trade-off for a very well executed application in detections and preventions. As far as "price/value" category, spy sweeper is a subscription based software. Therefore this can be a debatable issue?

Review date: Nov 05, 2005

Freeware
2000/XP/Vista

Outstanding

Rainlendar Lite version 0.21

Interface: 5
Features: 5
Ease of use: 5
Value: 5
Overall:

Great little reminder program. Seems to be very stable and quick. No installation needed if you download the zip file. Over 100 skins are available. All skins have various variations of features which makes this reminder so customizable and versatile over all the rest.

Review date: Oct 31, 2005

Freeware
Win (All)

Excellent

Spell Checker For OE version 2.1

Interface: 3
Features: 4
Ease of use: 5
Value: 5
Overall:

Integrates perfectly with OE. Does everything that it's meant to do for a spell checker, i.e. finds errors,corrects and replaces.

Review date: Oct 26, 2005

Freeware
2000/XP/Vista

Good for what it does

tinySpell version 1.3

Interface: 2
Features: 3
Ease of use: 4
Value: 3
Overall:

What it does is signals you when a word is spelled incorrectly, on the fly. The program is tiny,stable,almost no system resource usage,and shows you the correct spellings, however being so small (on the task-bar) you really have to glance down to see if it caught a spelling error even though it does make a very weak thump sound.

Review date: Oct 26, 2005

Freeware
Win (All)

First rate little program

ShutDownPro version 1.1.36

Interface: 3
Features: 5
Ease of use: 5
Value: 5
Overall:

After trying all 3 star and above rated programs on this page along with some others not listed here, I will say that this is the best. Fast,ultra light on system resources,stable and shuts down the pc faster than XP ever did. As a bonus this little program has some other tools along with cpu and system information panels. The only real interface is the settings/option panel. All the rest of the features are off the task-bar column.

Review date: Oct 26, 2005

Freeware
Win (All)

Best free dictionary

WordWeb version 3.03

Interface: 4
Features: 5
Ease of use: 5
Value: 5
Overall:

Been using this for quite awhile now and have yet to find any other program that even comes close to the simplicity,stability and quality of this. Uses little system resources. Is quick. Contains more words and definitions than others free or not. Has everything anyone would want not only for spelling and definitions but for usages, i.e. nouns, verbs, etc.. In summary,this is not just a spelling checker but a real learning tool.

Review date: Oct 25, 2005

Ad Supported (Free)
2000/XP/Vista

Excellent

Foxit PDF Reader version 1.3

Interface: 5
Features: 5
Ease of use: 5
Value: 5
Overall:

What more can one want over adobe? Small footprint. Stand alone (no installation needed). Very easy on system resources. Loads fast. Attractive interface. Reads pdf files just like adobe. And no annoying updates.

Review date: Oct 25, 2005

Ad Supported (Free)
Win (All)

One of the best.

Medved QuoteTracker version 3.6.3

Interface: 5
Features: 5
Ease of use: 3
Value: 5
Overall:

Have used this program for about two years now. The program itself (setup)is very complex. This is due to the numerous setup configurations and options,there are hundreds of them! Once everything is set the program is excellent during market sessions (almost real time data) which is really what the program is designed for. The program does take up alot of system resources but is very stable. Support is excellent. Updates are handled very well.However you yourself have to determine what gets updated. If you want to watch a few stocks then this program is NOT for you. However if your going to monitor/research several (20-1000+),then you will like this program.

Review date: Oct 25, 2005

Freeware
Win (All)

Overall a very good weather program....

Weather Pulse version 2.05

Interface: 5
Features: 4
Ease of use: 3
Value: 3
Overall:

Overall a very good weather program. However there does seem to be some instability in the program intermittently. Also the updates of the program take more download time then other programs, i.e. [..]. And last, the program is written in such a way that saving a setting change requires the option panel to close on save for each individual change set????

Review date: Oct 25, 2005

Freeware
Win (All)

Best weather software

Weather Watcher version 5.5e

Interface: 2
Features: 5
Ease of use: 5
Value: 5
Overall:

Compact,quick and efficient. Not blotted like weatherpulse. Very stable program with all the options that one could want.

Review date: Oct 15, 2005

Freeware
Win (All)

Well written program

NetVeda Safety.Net version 3.61

Interface: 4
Features: 5
Ease of use: 3
Value: 5
Overall:

After testing out all the major and some minor free firewall programs, I would have to say that this one is the most thorough and competent. It is not necessarily the easiest to configure but for protection it is superior over the others. I suspect it is written towards commercial clients which is a testimonial to how powerful and effective it really is.

Review date: Oct 08, 2005

Freeware
2000/XP

Stealth-less

SensiveGuard version 1.05

Interface: 3
Features: 2
Ease of use: 3
Value: 1
Overall:

Unfortunately after testing on various test sites, i.e. Shields-up, etc., it failed all the stealth tests.

Review date: Oct 08, 2005

Freeware
Win (All)

Excellent little program

EasyRead version 1.0

Interface: 3
Features: 2
Ease of use: 5
Value: 5
Overall:

A tiny install of a plus and minus sign into your toolbar. Very quick to zoom in and out for the entire web page. Or just hit refresh and your back to the original page size. I use it for viewing historical documents. Good for reading dates,fine print,etc.without changing your font.

Review date: Aug 31, 2005

Free Trial ($16.95)
98/ME/2000/XP/2003/Vista

The best

PhoneTray Dialup version 2.11

Interface: 5
Features: 5
Ease of use: 4
Value: 5
Overall:

Concur with everything on the previous review. Additionally all updates are free after purchase. Support response is very good. Note: I am using the beta version now which has even more features and options and no bugs! Very well written program.

Review date: Aug 17, 2005

Freeware
98/ME/2000/XP

Quick weather

Weathertastic version 2.1

Interface: 3
Features: 2
Ease of use: 5
Value: 4
Overall:

Small,no installation,and super fast forecast. Only shows present time forecast. Use it for a forecast in about 3 seconds. I use weatherwatcher when I want a detailed and extended forecast.

Review date: Aug 17, 2005

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