Useful websites/programs for your computer

[Mike Weins]

This thread will be a place to post links to computer sites and programs. Please check previous posts to help reduce duplicate postings :)

Ok here are the rules for posting in this thread. They're not abo****ely final yet, but I think they'll do for awhile.

Please check previous posts on this thread to see if what you wanted to post has been posted already or not.

Rules for posting links to software in this thread.

#1 The software must have a freeware or shareware version available for download. Posting of programs that are strictly commercial will not be allowed.

#2 The software should not contain bloatware, spyware, or adware. In other words it should be a clean download.

#3 If registration is required to download a program, please mention this when you post the link.

#4 Do not post links to pirated copies of software.

#5 Do not post links to obscene software (ie pornographic screen savers). If the software is located on a site with obscene advertising you MUST mention this when you post the link. If in doubt run it by admin or a moderator first.

#6 If there is animated/flashing images on the page where the software is located please mention this. Some of our members are very sensitive to flashing/animated images.

#7 If you actually use this software feel free to share your opinion about it.



Rules for posting links to computer related forums in this thread.

#1 Do not post links to forums that aren't free to join.

#2 If registration is required please mention this when you post the link.

#3 If you are a member at the forum you have linked to, you are encouraged to post your username along with the link. You don't have to if you're uncomfortable in doing so.

#4 Do not post a link to a forum that has obscene advertising on it.

#5 If there is animated/flashing images please mention this. Some of our members are very sensitive to flashing/animated images.

[Mike Weins]

This space reserved for the links I'll be providing during the weekend.

Thread is now open, and I'm hoping to get in some links in the next couple of days. Meanwhile feel free to add your favorites ;)

[bewolf]

CCleaner is a freeware system optimization and privacy tool. It removes unused files from your system - allowing Windows to run faster and freeing up valuable hard disk space. It also cleans traces of your online activities such as your Internet history. But the best part is that it's fast (normally taking less than a second to run) and contains NO Spyware or Adware! :)

http://www.ccleaner.com/

The site does have some moving adverts at the top of the screen.
although free the have special offers if you make a small donation to them (I haven't)

[sho-dan]

Please Read:

21 November 2006
"Users of a free version of GRISoft's AVG anti-virus software have begun receiving pop-up messages this week warning that their package would no longer be supported from 15 January. This prompted misplaced concerns among a number of Reg readers that GRISoft was ditching the free version of its security software. Actually, the firm is simply encouraging users to upgrade from AVG Free version 7.1 to AVG Free version 7.5, which boasts improved performance and compatibility with Windows Vista... judging by the handful of responses we've received, this dialogue box was perhaps not as clear as it might have been."

Direct link to AVG Anti-Virus Free: ver.AVG 7.5
http://free.grisoft.com/doc/2/lng/us/tpl/v5 <-----Click Me

It has a orange moving malware Top Threats banner at the top.
This site Contains NO Spyware or Adware

[The Dude]

Direct link to AVG Anti-Virus Free: ver.AVG 7.5
http://free.grisoft.com/doc/2/lng/us/tpl/v5 <-----Click Me

It has a orange moving malware Top Threats banner at the top.
This site Contains NO Spyware or AdwareYou beat me to it mate!!!

Grisoft is good @ hiding thier freeware option!

[TC44]

From this site you can see a list and links to download not only the programs being recommended here but others which meet the same criteria of being free, effective, clean of malware etc. It covers all the essential areas: Anti-virus, firewalls, cleaners, browsers, various other utilities and gives several good choices of each type.

You can go from there to the software's home site or download in just one click. It's one of my most important bookmarks.

http://100-downloads.com/

[bewolf]

Along the lines of TC44's post.

Try this site.

http://www.download.com/

[sho-dan]

I use this program and its easy to use :cool:

Secunia security site has developed a program which can test your system for vulnerable software or missing Microsoft updates. It is called "Secunia Software Inspector". It:

* Detects insecure versions of applications installed
* Verifies that all Microsoft patches are applied
* Assists you in updating your system and applications
* Runs through your browser. No installation or download is required.

It can be found here: Secunia Software Inspector (http://secunia.com/software_inspector)<---click me (Safe link, no baddies)


Note:
The main introduction page will open, click on the Start Now button. The Secunia Software Inspector page is showing, click on the Start button and wait until the scanning process is done. It shows whats updated and what needs to be updated. Nice program.

Cheers:)

[sho-dan]

How to
Tweak and Find answers to common questions about Windows Media Player FAQ (http://www.microsoft.com/windows/windowsmedia/player/faq/default.mspx).

How To
Install and UnInstall the Windows Media Player (http://www.microsoft.com/windows/windowsmedia/player/faq/installation.mspx) (Put a check mark in the box to View all answers)

Windows Media Player doadloads :
Updated and Previous versions (http://www.microsoft.com/windows/windowsmedia/player/previousversions.aspx)

Cheers :)

[Mott]

PC Flank is a online security site where they will remotely scan your PC/router for open ports, see if it's stealthed, and test your browser security to see if it shows referrer, allows cookies, etc.

They also have an exploits test to see if you can be crashed, but that's up to you. If you're current on your OS and run a firewall it shouldn't be a problem, and a comfort if you pass. I try it whenever I go for a scan, just for fun. :)

There are no ActiveX controls to download and doesn't require Scripting to run. It's been online for years and is safe to use.

http://www.pcflank.com/

Mott

[Mott]

The Live CDs on this list contain different Operating Systems like UNIX or Linux that run in memory on your computer without effecting the current OS you run now, your Hard Disk, or data. If you've ever wanted to try UNIX or Linux but are hesitant to do so for fear you'd mess things up, don't want to partition your HD into multiple areas, or just to see what it's about a Live CD is what you're looking for.

You put the CD in your tray, reboot your computer, and the OS contained on the CD runs in memory on your machine just like you had installed it on your Hard Drive. When you're finished you just take out the CD, reboot your computer, and your old OS and all your data is still there just as you left it.

Most, if not all CDs listed, are free and all you need is a CD burner and a broadband conection, as most are large downloads. (Puppy Linux is small enough to fit and run off a 100MB Zip Disk though.)

They are a lot of fun so enjoy yourself.

http://www.frozentech.com/content/livecd.php

Mott

[Mott]

From the DiamondCS site:

"RegistryProt is a 100% free, standalone, compact, low-level realtime registry monitor and protector, that adds another dimension to Windows security and intrusion detection. By monitoring important locations and keys in the Windows system registry, RegistryProt will alert whenever a key is added or changed, and then give the option of accepting the key change, reverting back to the original key setting, or deleting the key."


A really useful security program that uses very little memory and nobody should be without.

When you install it RegProt will alert you to all programs it finds at that time to make a list for itself. From that point on it starts with your computer and will only alert you if something has made change to your registry.

If you're installing a program anf it alerts you go ahead and OK it. You just have to use your head. (Is there some reason a change just occured in my registry???)

http://www.diamondcs.com.au/index.php?page=regprot


There are more freeware products from DiamondCS toward the bottom of the page:

http://www.diamondcs.com.au/index.php?page=products


Mott

[Mott]

The SpyWare Warrior site not has information on spyware and different programs used to detect them but links to a wealth of information on subjects such as:

Privacy & Security Checklists
Tweaks & Fixes
Malware Info
Browser Configuration
Windows Resources
PGP / GPG Resources
Mal-ware Control
Net Security
Net Privacy
Desktop Privacy & Security
Privacy Info
Crypto Info & Resources
Anonymity Resources

http://www.spywarewarrior.com/

Mott

[sho-dan]

Hello
At these two site you will find the Rouge anti-spyware programs and screen shots.
Please Do Not download these program's, you will be infected if so.

Rouge anti-spyware scanners and a list can found at spywarewarrior (http://www.spywarewarrior.com/rogue_anti-spyware.htm)

Rouge anti-spyware program screen shots can be found Here (http://siri.urz.free.fr/Fix/ScreenShot.php)

[sho-dan]

ATF Cleaner is a cleaner of temporary files. It empties the recycle bin, and deletes other non-needed files, and thus frees up disk space. This program is user friendly
It will remove all Temp Files, Cookies and Temp Internet Files, Java Cache and any others that you would like to remove. If you use Opera or Firefox, click on the cleaning options for each browser.

Please download ATF Cleaner (http://www.atribune.org/ccount/click.php?id=1) by Atribune.(Save to Desktop)

This program is for 98/ME XP and Windows 2000 (disregard the only for XP and Windows 2000. its been updated for 98 & ME)

Internet Explorer browser user:
Double-click ATF-Cleaner.exe to run the program.
Under Main choose: Select All
Click the Empty Selected button.

Firefox or Opera browser users: Click Firefox or Opera browser at the top and choose: Select All
Click the Empty Selected button.
NOTE: If you would like to keep your saved passwords, please click No at the prompt.
Click Exit on the Main menu to close the program

Notes for Windows Vista users:

On Windows Vista that "Windows Temp" is disabled, to empty "Windows Temp" ATF-Cleaner must be "Run as an Administrator"

ps. I use this program before using any type of scanner :cool: .

[The Dude]

The BEST progrqam however to remove temp files and such Sho-Dan is DISK CLEANER (www.diskcleaner.nl)

Small,quick,excellent!!!!!

[Mott]

For anyone not familiar with the concept of a sandbox, think "Nothing is forever"...

Sandboxie is a free program that lets you run any program, including Windows Installer Service, sandboxed. Nothing that happens with the program takes place outside the sandbox. Install a program using the noted Service and you don't like it? Delete the sandbox and it's like it was never there. Run Internet Explorer and pick up spyware? Same thing. You can even run with scripting enabled and not have to worry...like us paranoids. ;)


Download a file while using the sandboxed version of IE, turn off the program, or just look for the file where you downloaded it to while it's running, and it's not even there where you downloaded it to. The file is there but it only exists in the sandboxed version of your HD now. Rightclick the Sandboxie icon in your toolbar, choose Contents of Sandbox, Explore Contents, and the folder you downloaded the file to and the file will be there to install, read, or whatever it's used for.

It's a great tool and uses very little resources. You can register it and get added features, which costs $$$, but it can be used as freeware.

http://www.sandboxie.com/

Mott

[sho-dan]

These programs are recommended after your computer is clean after having been infected with malware.

Preventing re-infection
Before adding any other Spyware Detection and Removal programs always check the Rogue Anti-Spyware List for programs known to be misleading, mistaken, or just outright Foistware.

You will find the list here (http://www.spywarewarrior.com/rogue_anti-spyware.htm)

FREE programs:

1. SpywareBlaster (http://www.javacoolsoftware.com/spywareguard.html) will add a large list of programs and sites into your Internet Explorer settings that will protect you from running and downloading known malicious programs.

2. IE-SPYAD (http://www.spywarewarrior.com/uiuc/resource.htm) puts over 5000 sites in your restricted zone, so you'll be protected when you visit innocent-looking sites that aren't actually innocent at all. It basically prevents any downloads, cookies, scripts from the sites listed, although you will still be able to connect to the sites.

3. SpywareGuard (http://www.javacoolsoftware.com/spywareguard.html) - Works as a Spyware "Shield" to protect your computer from getting malware in the first place.

4. Spybot/S&D (http://www.safer-networking.org/en/download/index.html)
It scans for spyware and other malicious programs. Spybot has preventitive tools that stop programs from even installing on your computer.

5.Ad-Aware SE (http://www.lavasoftusa.com/support/download)
It scans for known spyware on your computer. These scans should be run at least once every two weeks.

6.SUPERAntiSpyware Free Edition (http://www.superantispyware.com/superantispyware.html)
A major and thorough malware scanner



ANTI-VIRUS:
> AntiVir Personal Edition (http://www.majorgeeks.com/AntiVir_Personal_Edition_7_d955.html)

> AVG Anti-Virus Free Edition 7.5 (http://free.grisoft.com/doc/5390/us/frt/0?prd=aff)

**Update your Anti Virus Software**
Either by Auto update or Manual update at least once a day for new definations.

FIREWALL:

> Comodo (http://www.personalfirewall.comodo.com/)

> I only want basic ZoneAlarm protection (http://www.zonealarm.com/store/content/company/products/znalm/freeDownload.jsp)

> Windows Updates (http://www.windowsupdate.com/) - It is very important to make sure that both Internet Explorer and Windows are kept current with the latest critical security patches from Microsoft. To do this just start Internet Explorer and select Tools > Windows Update, and follow the online instructions from there.

ATF Cleaner is a cleaner of temporary files. It empties the recycle bin, and deletes other non-needed files, and thus frees up disk space. This program is user friendly
It will remove all Temp Files, Cookies and Temp Internet Files, Java Cache and any others that you would like to remove. If you use Opera or Firefox, click on the cleaning options for each browser.

Please download ATF Cleaner (http://www.atribune.org/ccount/click.php?id=1) by Atribune.(Save to Desktop)

This program is for 98/ME XP and Windows 2000 (disregard the only for XP and Windows 2000. its been updated for 98 & ME)


Internet Explorer browser user:
Double-click ATF-Cleaner.exe to run the program.
Under Main choose: Select All
Click the Empty Selected button

Firefox or Opera browser users: Click Firefox or Opera browser at the top and choose: Select All
Click the Empty Selected button.
NOTE: If you would like to keep your saved passwords, please click No at the prompt.
Click Exit on the Main menu to close the program

Notes for Windows Vista users:

On Windows Vista that "Windows Temp" is disabled, to empty "Windows Temp" ATF-Cleaner must be "Run as an Administrator"

> Make your Internet Explorer more secure
From within Internet Explorer click on the Tools menu and then click on Options.
*Click on the Security tab
Click the Internet icon so it becomes highlighted.
Click on Default Level and click OK
Click on the Custom Level button.

*Change the Download signed ActiveX controls to Prompt
Change the Download unsigned ActiveX controls to Disable
Change the Initialise and script ActiveX controls not marked as safe to Disable
Change the Installation of desktop items to Prompt
Change the Launching programs and files in an IFRAME to Prompt
Change the Navigate sub-frames across different domains to Prompt
Internet Explorer 7 users: Check all other items and make sure that they meet the (recommended) setting when applies.

*When all these settings have been made, click on the OK button.
If it prompts you as to whether or not you want to save the settings, press the Yes button
Next press the Apply button and then the OK to exit the Internet Properties page.

Cheers and safe surfing :)

[The Dude]

Very nice list my friend :)

[jkl6]

For people who spend most of their day on the computer, this software reminds you to take breaks. Useful for preventing carpal tunnel and other computer overuse pains.
http://www.workrave.org