Problem: Installing and Updating Safe Software

SO many Programs and applications, so little time to chase around to each respective site, downloading and updating all those PC Freeware programs that we rely on. How often are they updated again, oh that's right, no set schedule. Then let's consider, each installed program represents a risk in terms of internet connectivity. Hackers find holes, and authors scramble to fix the security bug, patch it as quickly as possible, which leads to weekly updates for MOST of the important programs people use all the time, like JAVA and Shockwave, Flash and others. How can you keep up with the ever-changing world of software? New Versions seem to pop out overnight, with no end in sight?! It's a tedious chore for the pros and even more so for the average home user.

2 Great (and FREE) Solutions: Ninite and Secunia PSI

NINITE: Ninite is a fantastic site which lets you pick the apps you want to install and update in the future and it prepares a small download for you to save and re-use. The first time you run it, if the programs aren't installed, it will download and install them for you. If they are installed, or when you run it a second time, it will check for updates and apply them automatically. This is all done without changing your setup (if already installed and configured) and without adding toolbars or adware of any sort.

You can check it all out here: ninite.com.

SECUNIA PSI: Secunia offers a nice program that, once installed, checks your existing software for security vulnerabilities, and lets you know in a summary report. It then automatically updates each program in the background, if possible. Secunia PSI will notify you if any installed programs require manual updating. This is not for adding new software to your system, but rather keeping all software, including Microsoft programs, completely up to date.

You can get it here: secunia.com.

Both of these wonderful programs are offered for free for home users, and offer a paid, professional version as well (Secunia's Pro version is FREE for up to 5 PCs, and is only $60/seat after that). You should check them out today!