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Safe Downloads

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3 replies

by tillytoo9

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I've got a bit of a problem with downloads...fonts, software trials, etc. I want to try it all!
My brother has suggested (like I don't know this) that I make sure the downloads are safe before I try something.
Is it to be assumed that because Tech Republic has it on the site that the software trial is ok to try?
I'm mostly interested in photo and artsy type programs that allow more and simpler choices in editing and organizing photos.

Thank you.

3 replies

by tig2

It's a plug in and will give you a sense of whether a site is safe or not.

If you haven't already done so, download and install Zone Alarm Free. The defaults are generally sufficient to keep you safe from most things.

If it is a TR download, it's very likely to be safe. If it is a download from a peer, you might want to check on it first- Some of the peers are very knowledgeable and will offer great advice and links to useful tools. Other peers are a tool and not to be trusted. Kinda comes down to how trustworthy you think they are.

Google Site Advisor...

by thechas

Whether a site is generally safe or not is only part of the issue. A hacker can get in to most sites and stick in a malicious payload.

Make sure that your Anti-Virus software is up to date and is set to scan all files being downloaded. Also, make sure it is set to scan the contents of archive (ZIP) files.

Another thing to keep in mind is that some system utilities look like a virus because of what they can do.

Sites that I download from include:

Microsoft Marketplace
http://www.windowsmarketplace.com/?WT.mc_id=1106_05
I see that they have split the market place into 3 general categories, Windows, Office, and Tech.

www.download.com

www.snapfiles.com

www.nonags.com

Some sites link to Tucows which has been around a long time.

If you like Hewlett Packard RPN logic calculators, check out www.hpcalc.org and www.hpmuseum.org

Even for sites you trust, it is not a bad idea to manually scan the downloads for viruses before you install the software.

Chas

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