Software
Here I will post about software giveaways and useful freeware.
Upgrade to Internet Explorer 8 Now
If you have Windows XP or Vista and you're currently using Internet Explorer 6 or 7, you need to upgrade to 8 without delay.
There is a new vulnerability being exploited that only affects Internet Explorer 6 and 7. With support for those older versions coming to an end, it's important to upgrade to the latest version.
FileHippo Update Checker
Keeping track of software updates has become so much easier thanks to FileHippo.com Update Checker . This is a simple program that does it's job beautifully. It scans your computer, then presents a list of all the programs you have installed that have updated versions available for download.
Firefox 3.5 Released
The newest version of Firefox has arrived. Firefox 3.5 boasts improved anti-phishing, anti-malware, bookmark organization, session restore and is actually faster than previous versions. It also includes a new Private Browsing mode similar to Internet Explorer 8's InPrivate.
Security Patches & Updates
Here are the latest Security Patches and updates issued by software vendors:
Adobe Reader & Acrobat: Adobe Reader and Acrobat suffer from javaScript vulnerabilities that have been patched in version 9.1.1.
QuickTime: Apple released a security update for QuickTime that fixes 10 vulnerabilities which can allow code execution. As usual when these types of vulnerabilities are patched it is recommended that you update the software as soon as possible.
Firefox: Mozilla has updated Firefox to version 3.0.10. The new version fixes a stability issue and a security vulnerability.
Latest Happenings in PC Land
Windows News:
Windows 7 RC (Release Candidate) is scheduled for May 5 and the final version of Widows 7 is expected to ship during late summer/early fall.
Users currently using Windows Vista will be able to purchase an upgrade version of Windows 7 and upgrade easily to the latest Operating System.
Firefox Updated to 3.0.8
If you currently use Firefox, you'll want to update to version 3.0.8 (just released by Mozilla). This latest version fixes two critical security issues.
Mozilla continues to impress by issuing updates quickly whenever it becomes aware of vulnerabilities in it's browser.
In addition to the two security vulnerabilities, there were also a few bug fixed.
Internet Explorer 8 Released
Yesterday, Microsoft released the final version of Internet Explorer 8. I previously described some notable IE 8 features in the beta version and want to urge those currently using older versions of Internet Explorer to take the plunge and upgrade to Internet Explorer 8.
Security and performance improvements in this latest version are vast when compared to older versions and the upgrade is simple as can be. Just download Internet Explorer 8 and run set-up. Your settings, favorites and cookies are easily transferred and the improvements are well worth the time it takes to download and install.
Optimize Your PC with CCleaner
As I mentioned in my previous post Boost your PC's Performance, CCleaner is an excellent freeware tool. CCleaner keeps my PC optimized and clutter-free by removing unnecessary temporary internet files and keeps my privacy protected by helping me manage the Internet cookies and files I wish to keep.
OpenOffice.org: Simply Perfect
Recently my sister-in-law called me with the following problem: her daughter had a Word Document that she needed to work on for homework, but she could not get Microsoft Office to run because the version that came with her Dell PC was asking for a product key and she was having trouble locating it. I told her to try OpenOffice.org instead of rummaging through the house looking for the missing product key.
Malware Doesn’t Stand A Chance
Your computer is constantly at risk from malware such as Viruses, Trojans, Spyware and more. Anti-Virus software keeps Viruses and many Trojans at bay, but there are a slew of other baddies out there.
Malwarebytes' Anti-Malware specializes in finding and eradicating malware. The program scans your computer for malware and if found, gives you the option to remove it.