Computer Explore Review of nSpaces 1.1.0.4 - Multiple desktops are always at your hand
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| Computer Explore 2.5/5 |
Alas, while nSpaces is stable (unlike the far slickerFinestra Virtual Desktop), it's also rather primitive in comparison. It's easy to switch desktops if you use nSpaces hot keys. Not so much if you use the system tray menu. Using the tray requires at least two steps: Right-click the nSpaces icon, then select the space or launch the switcher then choose one of the four spaces there.
I suggest that you take advantage of nSpaces's ability to let you define a different background for each space. There's no precise preview of the virtual desktops with their applications and open windows as with Finestra Virtual Desktops. Instead, only the desktop background image differentiates them. Changing the solid blue background nSpaces defaults to won't cut it--the background will still be black, or blank. Alas, the program also seemed to lose my choice of backgrounds at one point, and to be honest, I'm not sure why.
All in all, nSpaces works well, but is more difficult to use than it should be. Hopefully, future versions will be friendlier. It's free to use, and if you see promise, you can donate to the developer to help out.
- Version: 1.1.0.4
- Downloads Count: 0
- License Type: Free
- Price: $0
- Date Added: Dec 11, 2011
- Operating Systems: Microsoft Windows 7, Microsoft Windows Vista, Microsoft Windows XP
- File Size: 680.0 KB
Computer Explore Review of ZoneAlarm Free Firewall 2012
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| Computer Explore 3/5 |
ZoneAlarm Free Firewall has been arguably the most popular third-party firewall for Windows. It’s a two-way firewall that’s designed to help protect your PC from hackers getting in and any malicious programs on your PC from sending data out. However, it doesn't protect against Web-based exploits like some (but not all) other firewall solutions do. It does include anti-phishing to help detect and block dangerous sites, though. Additionally, it includes 2GB of free online storage for backing up your files, also offered separately from ZoneAlarm.
When you install ZoneAlarm Free Firewall 2012 (I tested version 10.1.065), you’ll find product registration is required but you can opt-out of providing your email address if you wish, and only have to enter your name.
ZoneAlarm Free Firewall's simple interface requires little, if any, manual configuration.By default, it will install the ZoneAlarm Security Toolbar for Internet Explorer and make the Bing-powered ZoneAlarm web search site your default home page and search provider. The ZoneAlarm Security Toolbar can be useful for some users, especially if you customize it and add more apps, but can be annoying if you already have similar toolbars. If you’re a fan of another search engine--something other than Microsoft’s Bing--you’ll probably want to forgo changing your home page and search provider. Lucky you can opt-out of each of these by unmarking the appropriate checkboxes within the installation wizard.
Before installing, the installation wizard must download additional files--another 34MB during my evaluation. However if you’re installing it on multiple PCs via a network or flash drive they offer a full installer so you don’t waste time and bandwidth downloading the additional files for each installation. But keep in mind it’s a big (148MB) file.
Once installed, you’ll find a simple interface showing the status of the main protection areas: Computer, Internet, and Identity & Data. Each shows their status and changes color accordingly. You can also click on each to see status details and shortcuts for the related components.
Typically no manual configuration is needed. The firewall and anti-phishing will just do its job. You might not even be alerted to allow or deny applications through the firewall since it automatically consults its DefenseNet cloud service for the safety info on the applications. The advantage of this is fewer annoying popups, but offers less control by default and could even lessen your security.
Since potentially safe applications could be used maliciously, it’s best to double check the list of all the applications allowed through the firewall, which ZoneAlarm Free Firewall lets you do. For more control you can even disable the automatic application control altogether so you receive all program alerts, but is best for advanced users only.
If you opted in for the ZoneAlarm Security Toolbar, you’ll find it in Internet Explorer. You can use the search field to search using Bing. The Site Check button displays the current page’s security status, which can help identify phishing and other dangerous sites. You’ll also find buttons for shortcuts to other ZoneAlarm services, your email, Facebook, and more. You can even add more buttons by downloading additional apps for the toolbar.
If you're not bothered by this app's lack of protection against Web exploits, and can live with the rough edges of the interface, it's good choice to download.
Note: This product is free for individual and not-for-profit charitable use, but excludes governmental and educational organizations.
- Version: 2012 10.1.065
- Downloads Count: 744
- License Type: Free
- Price: Free
- Date Added: Nov 11, 2011
- Operating Systems: Microsoft Windows 7, Microsoft Windows Vista, Microsoft Windows XP
- Requirements: 2GHz or faster processor (1-GHz for XP), 2GB RAM, 100MB free hard drive space
- File Size: 5.06 MB
