Safe Software Downloading

mark59 · Feb 5, 2015

Today, I updated my free version of Advanced SystemCare (ASC) because when I opened it a dialogue box opened telling me there was a newer version opened. I clicked to download and that took me to Iobit's site to select the new version or to upgrade to the Pro version. I selected to just upgrade the free version. That took me to a ccnet web site. That got me thinking first why don't iobit just download it from their own web site, why use another site to download their own software? I also wonder how to know if certain sites are safe to download from? How can you know? Until recently I used filehippo until told on here that it was no longer safe. What's the best way of knowing if sites are safe to download software from?

DavidGP · Feb 5, 2015

HI Mark

Difficult question to answer at the best of times, but my rule of thumb is original developers site and/or Majorgeeks, the reason I say Majorgeeks is that I know the ethics of Tim and Jim over the past 15+yrs

However even an original developers site and mainly with free software you still have to be careful as they do at times add bundled software to their apps, I can see why as it pays the bills. The issues arise when added extra non developer bundles are added like Cnet and others, this thread is good read HERE

I try to stick to neiche download sites as the larger ones, have huge overheads and no quality control on apps they list, or the developer, but I also on sites and developers I have not heard of much, I do some searching for reviews or comments, if they have a forum ist a good place to look for feedback comments from users.

But best with all software you download, custom install if its offered and read every step and question on the installer as at times a YES for installing a bundled app (most are PC cleaners or toolbars or worst malware) means YES but at time its YES "do not install" or YES = Opt-in or YES = Opt-out.... so be careful as to the meaning of the question.

You can use Site Advisor type sites to check, but this take with pinch of salt, and use a a reference point.

Eldon · Feb 5, 2015

It seems like IObit is determined to shoot itself in the foot. When you can't download directly from the publisher... there's a problem. :crapCNET:crap is bad news, and laughing all the way to the bank.

Advanced SystemCare is a great program. Here's the link to download from MajorGeeks.

http://www.majorgeeks.com/files/details/advanced_systemcare_8.html

Log in or Sign up

Safe Software Downloading

mark59 MajorGeek

DavidGP MajorGeeks Forum Administrator - Grand Pooh-Bah Staff Member

Eldon Major Geek Extraordinaire