2.9

Too much of a good thing.

Most of us are content to use a lot of different programs for different tasks: a Web browser, a file manager (usually the default Windows Explorer), a screen-capture utility, a download manager, and so on. Risingware Exp+ Free Edition combines all of these features and more into one program, which is handy but also a bit overwhelming.

Occasionally we encounter software that startles us when we first lay eyes upon its interface, and Risingware Exp+ is definitely one such program. It has the two-pane layout common to file management programs, but a plethora of buttons across the top give it … Read more

McAfee's bid for 2010

Most of the major security vendors have already released their antivirus software for 2010, but until now, McAfee still hadn't. Now McAfee has burst onto the scene with three updated security applications--McAfee AntiVirus Plus, McAfee Internet Security, and McAfee Total Protection. While most of the main features remain unchanged, McAfee has overhauled the user interface, real-time defense engine, and firewall. There are also a few tweaks and omissions: for instance, third-party service Mozy has been entrusted to handle local backup. We give you the full run-down here.

Security certainly remains an important issue in computing and browsing, especially … Read more

Texting essential

Android's management of text messages leaves much to be desired, which is why enhancement apps proliferate. Like others, the free Handcent SMS pops up text messages on your screen, complete with the contact's photo (if you've got one for that person) the message, management icons, and a text field for replies. You have some control over the theme and skin, and many more customizations when it comes to notifications and adding a personal signature. We'd like to see a greater number of skins and themes in future releases, but even as is, Handcent SMS is a … Read more

Photo doctor

Photoinstrument provides a stunning amount of control when editing photos. Even with all the controls, the program still manages to be simple to operate, especially for those willing to invest the time.

Our first impressions were not positive since the program's interface looked slightly childish, thanks to command icons that are all various smiley faces. Fortunately, the tutorial videos that pop up immediately prove that this is a serious tool and seriously easy. We smoothly navigated the program's functions that are represented by the previously mentioned smileys, each offering ways to shade, erase blemishes, and even erase features (… Read more

Basic image editor

Too often we see photo utilities that fall into the trap of having only one feature; they can crop or rotate, for example, and that's it. We feared something similar from Picture Resize Genius, but the program turns out to have many useful features that make it worthwhile.

The program's interface is quite intuitive, with all of its functions well organized down the left side. Users can select one image, multiple images, or a folder full of images to be resized, and the program lists them all by file name for easy access. Users then select the functions … Read more

Heavenly security

CryptoHeaven is an encryption utility optimized for secure Internet communication. You can use it to send secure and anonymous e-mail and instant messages, post safely and privately in online chatrooms and forums, and safely store, share, and distribute files online. It offers both free and premium individual and multiuser encryption services and the latest encryption technology, such as no third-party keyholders and algorithms that basically take longer than the age of the universe to break.

Downloading and installing CryptoHeaven is easy, and so is signing up for a free account. The odd nag screen extols the advantages of the full … Read more

Watermark creator

WinWatermark offers a simple method for creating a watermark from scratch. This program will appeal to anyone looking to keep images from being illegally used.

The program's interface is broken down into a few command buttons, which makes it simple for users to navigate. Making things even simpler is the step-by-step process of creating a watermark written on the screen. A Help file is also available for more in-depth questions. Designing a watermark was simple. Users first choose a photo from a file tree in one tab and then tab over to create a watermark. The tool to create … Read more

Useful start-up utility

StartUp Organizer is an easy-to-use utility that lets users review and customize the programs they have set to run when they start their computers. The program's multiple features and intuitive interface make it a great choice.

The program's interface really couldn't be simpler. A list of programs that are set to run on start-up is the first thing users see, and users can easily enable or disable programs by checking or unchecking the boxes next to each one. Of course, users can also make this change in the Windows System Configuration Utility--StartUp Organizer even contains a link … Read more

Beginner typing lessons

Rapid Typing Tutor may be a good program to help novice typists improve, but experienced typists looking to increase their speed may be frustrated by the program's interface.

The program contains a series of lessons that scroll across the screen as the user types. Users can choose from lessons consisting of letters, syllables, capital letters, digits and symbols, or text. As each lesson scrolls across, a keyboard diagram shows an outline of hands moving to the appropriate key. Users type through each lesson and are then shown their scores on speed, accuracy, and arrhythmic input. The main problem with … Read more

Backup tool for experts

DFIncBackup Professional offers users a way to back up their files to prevent losing them forever. While this function appeals to practically all users, the program may not accommodate everyone.

This 30-day free trial is designed to take specific files and folders and back them up onto a ZIP file or an external disk. The first screen can seem intimidating to novice users or those unfamiliar with other backup programs on the market. DFIncBackup Professional has a Project Wizard that walks you through the steps of taking your files and saving them, but it still requires a solid grasp of … Read more