In the system development lifecycle, one primary difference between alpha and beta software is its release to actual end-users. There is a reason why we don't usually recommend such products and running ReactOS will almost certainly drive most users into a wall.
ReactOS is very interesting but there are far better products for us to recommend. It was exciting at the dawn of the new millennium but most people would be better off just installing an old version of Windows to get the compatibility they need.
As to catching up with Windows The original project aimed for Windows 95/98. Then the target shifted to Windows NT/2000. It made sense to do so but they still haven't hit that target properly. The longer it takes then the larger the gap between modern devices and this museum technology.
I definitely think it's worth promoting, though - and the fact that it wouldn't necessarily be a good daily driver now is slightly beside the point.
Here's the thing: with Windows 95, 98, NT, etc. etc., some versions may have been buggy, while others were fairly stable (in that good-bad-good-bad cycle). But you usually just skipped the bad one - or if you had to use it, it was still decent.
Suddenly, now, we have Windows 10, which some would simply call spyware among other things - and that's really the key here. Microsoft does not seem interested in backtracking - they're doing the opposite, if anything - and they aren't bringing out another version of Windows after this version. Many people don't want to use it because of these privacy concerns.
But let's be honest, as praiseworthy as Linux is, it isn't what some fans claim it to be. Yes, as an OS in and of itself, it's great, and very capable. If you want to use Linux with programs written for Linux, perfect, no problem. But if you want to use it as a Windows replacement, well, it gets complicated. Yes, you have Wine. But it's not seamless, far from it - and not all programs work with it. Every time you want to install a Windows program, you have to start messing around with settings and what not. And yes, I know emulation is a possibility, as well, but that also uses up more power - fine on a desktop, not so fine if you're on a portable device.
Since ReactOS is built to resemble Windows as closely as possible, it's also better suited as a platform for running Windows apps in the long term, and that is really the promise. No twenty-five hacks to get all your Windows programs running, just install ReactOS and your programs, and you're good to go - at least that's the goal. Sure, it isn't as far as Windows itself, but let's be honest, it took a good while for Linux to turn into what it is today. And given what I mentioned about Windows 10, I'm expecting ReactOS to get a good shot in the arm when it comes to development and use, so that while it may not be a viable Windows replacement now, it just may be once Microsoft drops Windows 7 support.
I used ReactOS some time ago, and to be honest while it wasn't that bad, I could never get the network to work. Not sure if it's been improved since then, but that was a deal breaker for me. I must also admit that I just tried it on a VM, so I'm not entirely sure whether that was the problem or not, however, it is very easy to use, and certainly it won't hurt if you just try it for fun inside a VM.
So near yet so far. I own a laptop that's not fast enough to run Windows well. I've tried various Linux distros on it and they're OK. But I don't love Linux and at this stage I don't think I shall. Wine isn't the cure for everything - it certainly does not run the programs I want it to. Trying to get a printer to work is a pain in the ass and I had to buy a wireless dongle for the laptop to get wi-fi to work. It seems the one in the laptop doesn't work with Linux. So I don't buy the talk that Linux is the solution to every Windows problem out there.
I installed this on the laptop without any problems. That's when my troubles started. It would appear that my 7 year old laptop is too young for React OS so its drivers didn't work. The display was stretched and when I tried to change the resolution the OS crashed. I couldn't get it online either for love or money. So that was the end of my React OS experience. It is a pity because I liked how well it was running on the laptop. I'll keep an eye on the project but sadly I can't see it going anywhere. Back to Lubuntu I go.
It's difficult to comment constructively because you don't give any details about which Windows programs you need, the printer make or wi-fi card. Suffice to say there is a lot of variation between distros as to which hardware is supported out of the box. Having said that the fix for unsupported stuff is usually only a forum post away. Here for example is the information related to Ubuntu wireless support. MC - Site Manager. https://help.ubuntu.com/community/WifiDocs/WirelessCardsSupported
I'm happy to see Inoreader get some attention. When Google Reader shut down, I jumped to Feedly, but after growing increasingly unhappy with it, I found Inoreader last year and swtiched to it. It's fantastic!
Using it after Google Reader closed, tried many other RSS readers (online and desktop), and now I think Inoreader is much better than others (including Google Reader and Feedly).
Inoreader is an excellent feed reader - I remember being so upset when Google Reader was discontinued, but Inoreader turned out to be even better. I prefer the layout to Feedly, although Feedly is a perfectly reasonable alternative.
I adopted The Old Reader after Google Reader evaporated. I've tried others, including InoReader, but The Old Reader just does the job simply and efficiently.
I gave up on using Inoreader on Windows 10 Mobile. Sticking with Feedlab at least that shows the articles that I have already setup under my Google account . Inoreader allowed me to login apparently but it showed not one article from my Google account RRS feeds that Feedlab has no issues with.
I use Inoreader strictly. I tried them all, even desktop apps. Inoreader is the best feed reader to me at the moment. I just wish they would make a UWP app so I could use it without opening a browser.
No one here can replicate your own internet usage and therefore comment on what might be your personal requirements but since there's a portable version why not try it and see. MC - Site Manager.
As I said or indicated on my comments about Pale Moon, Slimjet is THE best browser and it has few peers, and I'm familiar with more than a few browsers, and it's portability seems in keeping with my overall assessment... except that since I last commented, I discovered that portability is a bit of a misnomer - just last night I decided to use mt Slimjet setup on another machine, and the browser worked fine, but none of my extensions did. Worse, when I opened the extensions page none of the extensions were even listed.
So I copied the extensions again, opened the browser on the new computer, and... nothing! They copied because I saw them in explorer, but they were gone after I opened slimjet again, and I haven't been able to solve this problem. I've been backing up slimjet along with everything else, and I had the same result when I tried to run the backup copy - nothing but the browser itself worked. It appears I'll have to manually set up everything on my other computer. So from where I'm at, Slimjet is portable in that it doesn't require much setup or write to the registry, but it won't work properly when you try to use it elsewhere. If anyone has a solution, it would be most welcome.
I don't run Windows. Query is for another person. As I'd seen other browsers such as Midori "recommended" only to find it lacking in the basics such as described, I asked. Accessing https, java, Drive, etc is hardly "personal" but more an expectation for general browsing. I'm fine if you say, "we don't do testing, beyond VirusTotal". Thanks anyway.
Just for basic info. Not sure about the portable version, but the install put 5 new entries into my registry. Flashpeak, BLBeacon, FirstNotDefault, PreferenceMAC;s and Stability Metrics.
Update: Just installed portable on a different computer and it wrote to the registry. Good browser, but the claim that it doesn't write to the registry is false. Although, the entries are normal and harmless.
I have been using Slimjet as my primary browser for years and it works very well. One feature that Chrome doesn't have which Slimjet does well is opening new tabs for links, searches, address bar entries and bookmarks without having to do anything extra like a second key click. You can also use all chrome extensions and synch everything with google. Has a password manager built in too. It is highly customizable and is also updated regularly to keep pace with Chrome updates since it is based on Chrome. Firefox used to be my favorite but Slimjet has taken its place.
Windows 7 and Linux Mint 17.3 dual booted here. Slimjet worked just fine sideloaded in Mint. In Windows which I use constantly, not so good. Froze. Used it along side Opera and Firefox for 2 years. To replace FF as default browser. Liked it otherwise. Use Opera for its built in VPN. And to watch videos.
https sites just fine. The rest, Java?, flash, apps, you're looking for trouble IMO. Since it's Chrome engine based, apps probably work like they would in Chrome. In case you don't know, running Java in your OS is a security risk. Flash is being shunned on browsers. Sites using Flash are outdated. Risky.
What annoys me about Slimjet (SJ) is that after sitting for a while, it seems to go to sleep so that when I want to refresh a page, it takes multiple seconds for anything to happen. I find this very annoying. In addition, sometimes it seems that when this delay happens, SJ seems to sometimes knock out my router and I have to power the router off and on. This doesn't happen all the time, but it only happens once in a while when I go to refresh my SJ page. On the plus side, SJ uses less memory than all the other browser memory hogs. I don't know why these browsers need to use so much of my memory - and keep it used even when I close tabs. Modern browsers are horrible. I wish SJ would not "go to sleep", as otherwise I might keep using it.
Hi
Unfortunately all chromium clones suffer from this problem. It's by desing, i.e. it's a feature, not a bug :)
All extensions, passwords, site prefs, etc. are encrypted using a key depending on the PC; when you change the PC the key cannot be generated anymore so you cannot access the extension, passwords, etc.
Google wants this, to make you to login with a G account for sync, so they can see all your stuff.
Until now, Opera is the only chrome clone which has not this problem.
See https:/ /portableapps.com/node/42637 or search for it; it's an old bug/feature.
"Like many others in the market, it's based on the Chromium engine. It's in good company, because Google's Chrome is too."
.
...and that's why i won't even bother to check it out.
Just tried the portable version.
It added FOUR entries to the registry!
There is no "Remove Slimjet" or "Uninstall Slimjet" to be found anywhere!
And the worst:
After using it two or three times I started Firefox again and told FF that I wanted to use it as the default browser again. Win10 then starts the Default Apps app that wants me to confirm or establish that choice for the OS. SlimJet seems to have removed the Firefox entry from the list of browsers from which I have to select the "new" system wide default web browser.
Does the maker of SlimJet really believe that I might contemplate to try the installed version? No way!
Add/Remove entry is under Flashpeak Slimjet in my Programs and Features section. I did not make it my default browser. The portable version can just be deleted, no uninstall is needed.
@Bobcat:
You seem to refer to my comment. Correct?
If so: I was talking about "the portable version".
. That IMHO should neither make nor leave behind ANY registry changes!
If not I apologize.
Anything having to do with Microsoft will most certainly not deserve to be called brilliant....lol. I tolerate Windows but for any other application you can be sure there are better open source or independent alternatives to what Mr. Softie can offer.
I wonder how much it cost them to come up with the name. First thought I had was "swayback nag". I uploaded a 5 MB powerpoint, but then it hung halfway through Swaying (Swayifying?). A different PDF worked but looked pretty nasty. But thanks for trying, Microsoft.
Funny thing, they have a nicely done tutorial; they put it on Google's YouTube.
I might try again, using the web to Sway(tm) a presentation written in LibreOffice. Topic: "Why Linux is better than Windows."
I copied some very large files from one drive to another last night - had a hardware problem that corrupted at least some of them, I'm afraid. today I'm using Nirsoft HashMyfiles to generate hashes for both the source and destination files. It's very slow, apparently now reading only about 25MB/sec. Pretty sure it's not the fault of the software, but rather of other factors (drives are in external dock connected via esata, other programs running, etc.)
So I am definitely looking for a program that would verify very large files FAST. I wonder if there is a file copy program that can generate hashes for source and destination files during the file copy? Or could that be trusted?
Anyway thanks for the links. Will definitely try them out.
Alternative:
CrcCheckCopy ( I am its author )
- free
- command line tool
- Windows and MacOS
- CRC32 (fast)
- supports unicode filenames and folders
https://www.starmessagesoftware.com/crccheckcopy
I've always used Geekuninstaller....any idea how this one compares?
Btw, there are programs I've un-installed using Windows own which ends up leaving hundreds of leftover files, found running a file search & then a reg search....not good.
First impressions:
A very thorough initial scan; takes almost 2 minutes to finish and allow the user access to the interface.
Why do I have 18 versions of Microsoft Visual C++? Is this necessary?
I don't see too much of a difference between this and Revo Uninstaller, free version (the program I've been using for year).
Up until Revo did not offer its product free for 64 bit I chose it but after had to move to Advanced Uninstaller 11 but then it had some issues and have since moved to Geek Uninstaller also which does what Revo does but much more quickly and with less muss and fuss attached. This program I likely will install to see the "before" & "after" results.
You are quite wrong and inadvertently misleading people with your comments. From their web page:
Revo Uninstaller Free is fully compatible with 32-bit and 64-bit versions of Windows XP, Windows Vista, Windows 7, Windows 8, Windows 8.1, Windows 10 and Windows Server
Yoiu might want to re-read my original comment - in which i said that the last time i checked Revo - about a year ago - it didn't handle 64-bit programs (even though it ran on 64-bit Windows).
Then, since you quoted the Revo website, i will also - from this page (the change log): https://www.revouninstaller.com/revo_uninstaller_full_version_history.html
"September 19, 2016 Revo Uninstaller Freeware version 2.0.1
Removed ad panel
Fixed Minor bugs
Updated language files
August 04, 2016 Revo Uninstaller Freeware version 2.0.0
Added - Full 64-bit support
Added - Details Panel about selected program in Icon view
Added - Еxport command(for the list of installed programs and leftovers)
Improved User Interface
Improved Hunter Mode
Improved all 8 additional tools
Many minor improvements"
Last time i checked my calendar, August 2016 (when they finally added full 64-bit compatibility) was rather less than a year ago.
SO.
Yes, i was incorrect. And, yes, i suppose that my remarks could mis-lead people.
BUT. I was correct as of the last time i had personal knowledge of the program, and, since since then i have not had the program on my computer, because it didn't do what i needed it to, i had no knowledge that the function had been added.
Perhaps you should have searched the Revo website a tad more thoroughly before you assumed that what i said was incorrect IN THE CONTEXT OF HOW AND WHY I SAID IT.
(That page was the second result - after what i assume is the page you quoted from - that came up on a google search for "revo uninstaller 64-bit")
Folks this is not a forum for rude snarky comments. Be polite. It is a forum to help users not for anyone to trumpet that they believe they are smarter than someone else.
Now my input I use IObitUninstaller and like it a lot. I particularly like its "Powerful Uninstall" option at the end. This shows the "dregs" not initially cleared.It too is free. I always update it as soon as a new version appears.. I am running Win10 Version 1607 -64bit.
Thanks Rob for the recommendation for your preferred file copy utility
For me to use a file copy utility, it has to:
1)Be fast
2)Be supremely accurate, and provide a complete copy of all folders and files, with no missing files
3)Ensures all copied folders and files have the same date and time, of the original source folders, files
4)Be portable (this is not essential, but I prefer all my applications do not touch my registry)
I suggest when trying a new file copy utility, always check the result by using a folder comparison utility, to make sure the copy job was complete and a true copy of the original. Some file copy utilities dont accurately copy folders with lot of levels of subfolders
I commonly copy files across to a back up drive, and there is an important difference between 'copying files' and 'backing up files'
Regarding backing up your data, you are not creating an accurate backup if the copied files have different dates and time stamps to the original source, which is what most file copy utilities do
https://www.raymond.cc/blog/12-file-copy-software-tested-for-fastest-transfer-speed/
This is the best comparison study I have found, from an independent source, regarding most of the free file copy utilities available for Windows
It compares the speed of copying of each utility to the copy speed of Windows XP, Windows 7, and Windows 8
I have used the freeware "Fast Copy", as it is free, fast, and ensures the copied folders and files have the same datestamps as the originals
Fast Copy does appear to preserve the date/time stampof files but it only seems capable of copyng entire directories unless the 'filter' option is used. This would be OK for a single file or all those which fit a flter string, but not to select a few files with wildly-different names in a direccory with many entries.
@ hpearce
Look at the detailed info below where diskinfo says "remaining life" for your SSD, it should be matching that figure. For SSD's this is like a wear indicator rather than state of health. It's not telling you it's 1% failed but rather that it's used up 1% of its estimated life expectancy.
I have been using PicPick for several years and it's marvelous. Very user friendly and convenient to use.
The only problem I've had is with scrolling capture, which I use often to save large sections of web pages as graphics. many times, the page begins to scroll and then stops. I've also noticed different behavior with different browsers. On the other hand, I've found that scrolling capture in ShareX (listed here recently as well) works a treat. So far it hasn't failed me on any web page or any browser. Unfortunately, I don't find ShareX nearly as convenient to use as PicPick. It doesn't have an editor and I find saving captured files to be non-intuitive and a bit of a nuisance.
PicPick has been my go-to tool for screen captures, editing and image conversions since first reading about it at Gizmo's (then known as Tech Support Alert) well over a decade ago (I use the portable version). A bit of creativeness allows capturing an image larger than the screen with just a little extra effort. Five stars.
The problem with keyboard shortcuts is that you have to remember which ones are associated with what apps and unless you are using them on a daily basis you soon forget them. Some of the tips listed are pretty good although I had to laugh at #15.... carrying a debit card that allows access to an ATM makes more sense.
One or two caught my eye as not being something I would do without a little more poking around for information, like this one: "Laptop batteries can last longer if you charge them up to only 80% instead of the full 100%" I haven't done checked that one out, but I would before started that as a habit. And #30, buying a product on Amazon, and getting a refund if there's is a price drop within 7 days - I think amazon is in the process of discontining that.
Quote re Dropbox hack:
"Carousel is no longer supported
On March 31, we shut down Carousel and returned to a single Dropbox photo experience. Your photos are still safely backed up and accessible in the Dropbox desktop application, mobile app, and online at photos.dropbox.com."
Maybe you know several places that accept paper money but not debit and are some distance from an ATM but I can't think of one in the city where I live.
I think the laptop battery tip only applies to the first usage. Your probably not going to be able to prevent your laptop from bringing the battery to full charge on sub sequence instances anyway.
Ok, I’ll bite. Not many, but some - but that’s not really the point. If you were aware of these places, then it wouldn’t be an emergency. You’d know ahead of time that you’d need cash. By definition, an emergency is something you aren’t expecting. I agree- in a big city this is less likely to be an issue than traveling for example, or in an unfamiliar area. But even around home or in a big city, this is a good tip for some people. If you really can’t think of any situations when having emergency cash would be useful - and don’t have access to ATM/Debit, here are some.
Heaven forbid your wallet gets lost or stolen. It would be handy to have some cash hiding in your phone case, until you can get that sorted out.
Standing in a checkout with a bunch of groceries and your card is declined for no apparent reason. Maybe a bank error. Glitches happen – cards have issues swiping or scanning sometimes. Surely you’ve been in line behind someone whose card just won’t swipe - the cashier breathes on it, licks it and wipes it on their pants, sticks it on their forehead, rubs it in their armpit, then wraps it paper - trying to get a good swipe. Sometimes cards or scanners just fail. Maybe that’s the guy in front of you, maybe that’s you :). Sure – you can leave all your groceries on the counter and go to an ATM and get some cash, or go to your bank and sort it out – assuming your bank is open – but that’s a bit inconvenient either way. Or you can pull out your emergency cash and be on your way..
Go out for a night with friends and forgot your wallet at home. You can borrow some money from your friends, or pay your own way with your secret “phone cash”.
Maybe you’ve spent more money than you realize and have none left in your account – or you have a shared account and didn’t realize your spouse/partner had made a big purchase and drained the account. Glitch with your payroll deposit…
Even in a big city – while traveling, your bank locks down your account due to “suspicious activity”. That’s happened to many people, myself included. Sure you can call them and get that sorted out- but when do you usually find out for the first time? – When you’re standing in front of a cashier trying to pay for something.
Maybe you didn’t notice that your card had expired. No problem – leave some collateral for the store/restaurant/gas station you’re at, go home and find the new card - then go back and pay for your items. Maybe not an emergency, but inconvenient. Would be nice if you just had $50 hiding in your phone case :).
Pull into a gas station running on fumes and see a sign on the door – “Network is down - sorry cash only”. Drive to another gas station? To an ATM and back? Not sure you’ll have enough gas to make it... Take a chance, or walk to the nearest ATM. Broad daylight in a nice area? No problem. Late at night in a scary neighborhood? Pouring rain? Even $10 cash would be really handy to get you on your way.
Those are just some examples that could happen in a big city scenario- never mind traveling or more rural areas or long stretches of highway with fewer ATMs and credit/debit access. Many people don’t live in big cities and having paper money available “just in case” could be a good idea. If you don’t this is useful - that’s cool :). I didn’t think it was such a ridiculous tip :).
I ran into one of these scenarios the other day. I was getting my oil changed at the small, family owned business I use in the town that's nearest to me. The service that allows them to process electronic transactions using debit and credit cards wasn't working and the phone company that provides the service said they wouldn't have it back up and running for a few days because they had to send someone from another state to fix it, even though the largest city in the state is half an hour away.
I personally have never had access to any text that so completely breaks down the concepts involved in programming. The indices alone are more complete and detailed than most college and tech school textboooks.
Reverse Engineering is a lot like trying to understand why women are obsessed with shoe sales or if your a women, why men are willing to spend hours tinkering with a carburetor. It's pretty interesting stuff even when there are no clear answers to these questions.
Or why women are silly, empty-headed and obsessed with looks and getting something pretty cheap, but men are willing to put hours of intellectual effort and skill into something. I think your sexism has no place anywhere, certainly not on a techie blog where a lot of people are women. I was a consumer electronics designer and find your remark very insulting indeed.
Why is avast! Mobile Security the recommended anti-malware program here, when the Best Free Antivirus App for Android list shows 3 other programs all scored 5 stars while avast! is only 4 stars?
Re: CM Security Antivirus App Lock
CM Security also offer CM Security Lite - Antivirus which uses less power, less memory and has fewer ads.
It seems to work quite satisfactorily.
https://play.google.com/store/apps/details?id=com.cmsecurity.lite
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Haven't checked the Winelist lately, but the last i checked, the two apps i really need weren't supported.
Uhhh ... nope.
The real deal-breaker is Serif PagePlus.
I've tried the recommended open-source alternatives (mainly Scribus) and there is no comparison.
In the system development lifecycle, one primary difference between alpha and beta software is its release to actual end-users. There is a reason why we don't usually recommend such products and running ReactOS will almost certainly drive most users into a wall.
ReactOS is very interesting but there are far better products for us to recommend. It was exciting at the dawn of the new millennium but most people would be better off just installing an old version of Windows to get the compatibility they need.
As to catching up with Windows The original project aimed for Windows 95/98. Then the target shifted to Windows NT/2000. It made sense to do so but they still haven't hit that target properly. The longer it takes then the larger the gap between modern devices and this museum technology.
I definitely think it's worth promoting, though - and the fact that it wouldn't necessarily be a good daily driver now is slightly beside the point.
Here's the thing: with Windows 95, 98, NT, etc. etc., some versions may have been buggy, while others were fairly stable (in that good-bad-good-bad cycle). But you usually just skipped the bad one - or if you had to use it, it was still decent.
Suddenly, now, we have Windows 10, which some would simply call spyware among other things - and that's really the key here. Microsoft does not seem interested in backtracking - they're doing the opposite, if anything - and they aren't bringing out another version of Windows after this version. Many people don't want to use it because of these privacy concerns.
But let's be honest, as praiseworthy as Linux is, it isn't what some fans claim it to be. Yes, as an OS in and of itself, it's great, and very capable. If you want to use Linux with programs written for Linux, perfect, no problem. But if you want to use it as a Windows replacement, well, it gets complicated. Yes, you have Wine. But it's not seamless, far from it - and not all programs work with it. Every time you want to install a Windows program, you have to start messing around with settings and what not. And yes, I know emulation is a possibility, as well, but that also uses up more power - fine on a desktop, not so fine if you're on a portable device.
Since ReactOS is built to resemble Windows as closely as possible, it's also better suited as a platform for running Windows apps in the long term, and that is really the promise. No twenty-five hacks to get all your Windows programs running, just install ReactOS and your programs, and you're good to go - at least that's the goal. Sure, it isn't as far as Windows itself, but let's be honest, it took a good while for Linux to turn into what it is today. And given what I mentioned about Windows 10, I'm expecting ReactOS to get a good shot in the arm when it comes to development and use, so that while it may not be a viable Windows replacement now, it just may be once Microsoft drops Windows 7 support.
What you can or cannot do with Linux as opposed to Windows is relative to individual needs but in general terms for most users Linux has major advantages. All of my daily work, including what I do for this site, is done using Linux. The only time I boot into Windows proper or a VM installed Windows is to check out queries posted about Windows apps. MC - Site Manager.
Some views both ways.
http://www.cio.com/article/2917372/linux/7-things-linux-users-still-cant...
https://sites.google.com/site/ilugjammu/home/things-i-can-do-in-linux-th...
https://olimex.wordpress.com/2013/09/18/16-things-i-like-in-linux-which-...
...and, as i said, the majority of my work CANNOT be done on Linux.
Once i get a good emulator or Serif releases a Linux version ...
I used ReactOS some time ago, and to be honest while it wasn't that bad, I could never get the network to work. Not sure if it's been improved since then, but that was a deal breaker for me. I must also admit that I just tried it on a VM, so I'm not entirely sure whether that was the problem or not, however, it is very easy to use, and certainly it won't hurt if you just try it for fun inside a VM.
So near yet so far. I own a laptop that's not fast enough to run Windows well. I've tried various Linux distros on it and they're OK. But I don't love Linux and at this stage I don't think I shall. Wine isn't the cure for everything - it certainly does not run the programs I want it to. Trying to get a printer to work is a pain in the ass and I had to buy a wireless dongle for the laptop to get wi-fi to work. It seems the one in the laptop doesn't work with Linux. So I don't buy the talk that Linux is the solution to every Windows problem out there.
I installed this on the laptop without any problems. That's when my troubles started. It would appear that my 7 year old laptop is too young for React OS so its drivers didn't work. The display was stretched and when I tried to change the resolution the OS crashed. I couldn't get it online either for love or money. So that was the end of my React OS experience. It is a pity because I liked how well it was running on the laptop. I'll keep an eye on the project but sadly I can't see it going anywhere. Back to Lubuntu I go.
It's difficult to comment constructively because you don't give any details about which Windows programs you need, the printer make or wi-fi card. Suffice to say there is a lot of variation between distros as to which hardware is supported out of the box. Having said that the fix for unsupported stuff is usually only a forum post away. Here for example is the information related to Ubuntu wireless support. MC - Site Manager.
https://help.ubuntu.com/community/WifiDocs/WirelessCardsSupported
I'm happy to see Inoreader get some attention. When Google Reader shut down, I jumped to Feedly, but after growing increasingly unhappy with it, I found Inoreader last year and swtiched to it. It's fantastic!
The Firefox Inoreader Companion Add-on is the official Inoreader extension - Last Updated: July 8, 2016.
Using it after Google Reader closed, tried many other RSS readers (online and desktop), and now I think Inoreader is much better than others (including Google Reader and Feedly).
Yes, you got it right BillK. According to this page, https://addons.mozilla.org/en-us/firefox/addon/inoreader-companion/, the current version of the Firefox addon is 1.30, last updated on July 8, 2016.
Another +1 for Inoreader
Inoreader is an excellent feed reader - I remember being so upset when Google Reader was discontinued, but Inoreader turned out to be even better. I prefer the layout to Feedly, although Feedly is a perfectly reasonable alternative.
I adopted The Old Reader after Google Reader evaporated. I've tried others, including InoReader, but The Old Reader just does the job simply and efficiently.
I gave up on using Inoreader on Windows 10 Mobile. Sticking with Feedlab at least that shows the articles that I have already setup under my Google account . Inoreader allowed me to login apparently but it showed not one article from my Google account RRS feeds that Feedlab has no issues with.
I use Inoreader strictly. I tried them all, even desktop apps. Inoreader is the best feed reader to me at the moment. I just wish they would make a UWP app so I could use it without opening a browser.
How does Slimjet handle java, flash, Google apps, https logins to banks, etc? I had issues at some sites using Midori.
As I said or indicated on my comments about Pale Moon, Slimjet is THE best browser and it has few peers, and I'm familiar with more than a few browsers, and it's portability seems in keeping with my overall assessment... except that since I last commented, I discovered that portability is a bit of a misnomer - just last night I decided to use mt Slimjet setup on another machine, and the browser worked fine, but none of my extensions did. Worse, when I opened the extensions page none of the extensions were even listed.
So I copied the extensions again, opened the browser on the new computer, and... nothing! They copied because I saw them in explorer, but they were gone after I opened slimjet again, and I haven't been able to solve this problem. I've been backing up slimjet along with everything else, and I had the same result when I tried to run the backup copy - nothing but the browser itself worked. It appears I'll have to manually set up everything on my other computer. So from where I'm at, Slimjet is portable in that it doesn't require much setup or write to the registry, but it won't work properly when you try to use it elsewhere. If anyone has a solution, it would be most welcome.
I don't run Windows. Query is for another person. As I'd seen other browsers such as Midori "recommended" only to find it lacking in the basics such as described, I asked. Accessing https, java, Drive, etc is hardly "personal" but more an expectation for general browsing. I'm fine if you say, "we don't do testing, beyond VirusTotal". Thanks anyway.
Just for basic info. Not sure about the portable version, but the install put 5 new entries into my registry. Flashpeak, BLBeacon, FirstNotDefault, PreferenceMAC;s and Stability Metrics.
Update: Just installed portable on a different computer and it wrote to the registry. Good browser, but the claim that it doesn't write to the registry is false. Although, the entries are normal and harmless.
I have been using Slimjet as my primary browser for years and it works very well. One feature that Chrome doesn't have which Slimjet does well is opening new tabs for links, searches, address bar entries and bookmarks without having to do anything extra like a second key click. You can also use all chrome extensions and synch everything with google. Has a password manager built in too. It is highly customizable and is also updated regularly to keep pace with Chrome updates since it is based on Chrome. Firefox used to be my favorite but Slimjet has taken its place.
Windows 7 and Linux Mint 17.3 dual booted here. Slimjet worked just fine sideloaded in Mint. In Windows which I use constantly, not so good. Froze. Used it along side Opera and Firefox for 2 years. To replace FF as default browser. Liked it otherwise. Use Opera for its built in VPN. And to watch videos.
https sites just fine. The rest, Java?, flash, apps, you're looking for trouble IMO. Since it's Chrome engine based, apps probably work like they would in Chrome. In case you don't know, running Java in your OS is a security risk. Flash is being shunned on browsers. Sites using Flash are outdated. Risky.
What annoys me about Slimjet (SJ) is that after sitting for a while, it seems to go to sleep so that when I want to refresh a page, it takes multiple seconds for anything to happen. I find this very annoying. In addition, sometimes it seems that when this delay happens, SJ seems to sometimes knock out my router and I have to power the router off and on. This doesn't happen all the time, but it only happens once in a while when I go to refresh my SJ page. On the plus side, SJ uses less memory than all the other browser memory hogs. I don't know why these browsers need to use so much of my memory - and keep it used even when I close tabs. Modern browsers are horrible. I wish SJ would not "go to sleep", as otherwise I might keep using it.
Hi
Unfortunately all chromium clones suffer from this problem. It's by desing, i.e. it's a feature, not a bug :)
All extensions, passwords, site prefs, etc. are encrypted using a key depending on the PC; when you change the PC the key cannot be generated anymore so you cannot access the extension, passwords, etc.
Google wants this, to make you to login with a G account for sync, so they can see all your stuff.
Until now, Opera is the only chrome clone which has not this problem.
See https:/ /portableapps.com/node/42637 or search for it; it's an old bug/feature.
Much obliged. I would have wrestled with this forever. Thanks so much.
"Like many others in the market, it's based on the Chromium engine. It's in good company, because Google's Chrome is too."
.
...and that's why i won't even bother to check it out.
Just tried the portable version.
It added FOUR entries to the registry!
There is no "Remove Slimjet" or "Uninstall Slimjet" to be found anywhere!
And the worst:
After using it two or three times I started Firefox again and told FF that I wanted to use it as the default browser again. Win10 then starts the Default Apps app that wants me to confirm or establish that choice for the OS. SlimJet seems to have removed the Firefox entry from the list of browsers from which I have to select the "new" system wide default web browser.
Does the maker of SlimJet really believe that I might contemplate to try the installed version? No way!
Add/Remove entry is under Flashpeak Slimjet in my Programs and Features section. I did not make it my default browser. The portable version can just be deleted, no uninstall is needed.
Thanks
@Bobcat:
You seem to refer to my comment. Correct?
If so: I was talking about "the portable version".
. That IMHO should neither make nor leave behind ANY registry changes!
If not I apologize.
Anything having to do with Microsoft will most certainly not deserve to be called brilliant....lol. I tolerate Windows but for any other application you can be sure there are better open source or independent alternatives to what Mr. Softie can offer.
I wonder how much it cost them to come up with the name. First thought I had was "swayback nag". I uploaded a 5 MB powerpoint, but then it hung halfway through Swaying (Swayifying?). A different PDF worked but looked pretty nasty. But thanks for trying, Microsoft.
Funny thing, they have a nicely done tutorial; they put it on Google's YouTube.
I might try again, using the web to Sway(tm) a presentation written in LibreOffice. Topic: "Why Linux is better than Windows."
I copied some very large files from one drive to another last night - had a hardware problem that corrupted at least some of them, I'm afraid. today I'm using Nirsoft HashMyfiles to generate hashes for both the source and destination files. It's very slow, apparently now reading only about 25MB/sec. Pretty sure it's not the fault of the software, but rather of other factors (drives are in external dock connected via esata, other programs running, etc.)
So I am definitely looking for a program that would verify very large files FAST. I wonder if there is a file copy program that can generate hashes for source and destination files during the file copy? Or could that be trusted?
Anyway thanks for the links. Will definitely try them out.
Teracopy has a verify option which generates hashes during the copy/move process.
thanks very much - i will give Teracopy a try.
Alternatives:
FileVerifier++
wxChecksums
I'm looking for something that uses better algorithms; MD5 is real slow.
Alternative:
CrcCheckCopy ( I am its author )
- free
- command line tool
- Windows and MacOS
- CRC32 (fast)
- supports unicode filenames and folders
https://www.starmessagesoftware.com/crccheckcopy
I've always used Geekuninstaller....any idea how this one compares?
Btw, there are programs I've un-installed using Windows own which ends up leaving hundreds of leftover files, found running a file search & then a reg search....not good.
Awesome as usual from Nirsoft. Even showed some programs that for some reason won't show up in Revo Uninstaller.
First impressions:
A very thorough initial scan; takes almost 2 minutes to finish and allow the user access to the interface.
Why do I have 18 versions of Microsoft Visual C++? Is this necessary?
I don't see too much of a difference between this and Revo Uninstaller, free version (the program I've been using for year).
Possibly 64-bit? Last i checked, Revo free doesn't do 64-bit.
Perhaps this program does 64-bit, which Revo free doesn't (or at least, didn't, when i checked last, a year or so ago)?
================
I see there is a 64-bit version, which i have downloaded.
Up until Revo did not offer its product free for 64 bit I chose it but after had to move to Advanced Uninstaller 11 but then it had some issues and have since moved to Geek Uninstaller also which does what Revo does but much more quickly and with less muss and fuss attached. This program I likely will install to see the "before" & "after" results.
Thanks. All the Nir Sofer products are excellent.
Don't know what you mean, Revo Free doesn't do 64-bit. I've been using it with Windows 10 64-bit with no problems at all.
That's what i thought until i read an article that caused me to check - it RUNS fine on 64-bi Windows ... but it won't UNINSTALL 64-bit programs.
As i recall, 64-bit programs don't even show up in its list.
You are quite wrong and inadvertently misleading people with your comments. From their web page:
Revo Uninstaller Free is fully compatible with 32-bit and 64-bit versions of Windows XP, Windows Vista, Windows 7, Windows 8, Windows 8.1, Windows 10 and Windows Server
Yoiu might want to re-read my original comment - in which i said that the last time i checked Revo - about a year ago - it didn't handle 64-bit programs (even though it ran on 64-bit Windows).
Then, since you quoted the Revo website, i will also - from this page (the change log): https://www.revouninstaller.com/revo_uninstaller_full_version_history.html
"September 19, 2016 Revo Uninstaller Freeware version 2.0.1
Removed ad panel
Fixed Minor bugs
Updated language files
August 04, 2016 Revo Uninstaller Freeware version 2.0.0
Added - Full 64-bit support
Added - Details Panel about selected program in Icon view
Added - Еxport command(for the list of installed programs and leftovers)
Improved User Interface
Improved Hunter Mode
Improved all 8 additional tools
Many minor improvements"
Last time i checked my calendar, August 2016 (when they finally added full 64-bit compatibility) was rather less than a year ago.
SO.
Yes, i was incorrect. And, yes, i suppose that my remarks could mis-lead people.
BUT. I was correct as of the last time i had personal knowledge of the program, and, since since then i have not had the program on my computer, because it didn't do what i needed it to, i had no knowledge that the function had been added.
Perhaps you should have searched the Revo website a tad more thoroughly before you assumed that what i said was incorrect IN THE CONTEXT OF HOW AND WHY I SAID IT.
(That page was the second result - after what i assume is the page you quoted from - that came up on a google search for "revo uninstaller 64-bit")
Folks this is not a forum for rude snarky comments. Be polite. It is a forum to help users not for anyone to trumpet that they believe they are smarter than someone else.
Now my input I use IObitUninstaller and like it a lot. I particularly like its "Powerful Uninstall" option at the end. This shows the "dregs" not initially cleared.It too is free. I always update it as soon as a new version appears.. I am running Win10 Version 1607 -64bit.
Thanks Rob for the recommendation for your preferred file copy utility
For me to use a file copy utility, it has to:
1)Be fast
2)Be supremely accurate, and provide a complete copy of all folders and files, with no missing files
3)Ensures all copied folders and files have the same date and time, of the original source folders, files
4)Be portable (this is not essential, but I prefer all my applications do not touch my registry)
I suggest when trying a new file copy utility, always check the result by using a folder comparison utility, to make sure the copy job was complete and a true copy of the original. Some file copy utilities dont accurately copy folders with lot of levels of subfolders
I commonly copy files across to a back up drive, and there is an important difference between 'copying files' and 'backing up files'
Regarding backing up your data, you are not creating an accurate backup if the copied files have different dates and time stamps to the original source, which is what most file copy utilities do
https://www.raymond.cc/blog/12-file-copy-software-tested-for-fastest-transfer-speed/
This is the best comparison study I have found, from an independent source, regarding most of the free file copy utilities available for Windows
It compares the speed of copying of each utility to the copy speed of Windows XP, Windows 7, and Windows 8
I have used the freeware "Fast Copy", as it is free, fast, and ensures the copied folders and files have the same datestamps as the originals
Fast Copy does appear to preserve the date/time stampof files but it only seems capable of copyng entire directories unless the 'filter' option is used. This would be OK for a single file or all those which fit a flter string, but not to select a few files with wildly-different names in a direccory with many entries.
Nice n simple to understand. I like that it gives a temperature reading as well. Used portable version
Windows 10 : No disk found. Useless.
Windows 10: works fine for me, so far from useless. I used the x64 portable version. Thanks Rob, nice one
My SSD C drive says GOOD with 99% underneath it .... but I can find nothing in help to explain what this means.
@ hpearce
Look at the detailed info below where diskinfo says "remaining life" for your SSD, it should be matching that figure. For SSD's this is like a wear indicator rather than state of health. It's not telling you it's 1% failed but rather that it's used up 1% of its estimated life expectancy.
Thankyou
Downloaded portable but on double click DiskInfo32 file I get message Not Found "Graph.HTML"
Please advise next steps
Which version do I download? There are several different ones listed and your article doesn't mention this. Thanks!
Thanks. Use this kind of app a lot. Been happy with old DuckLink Screen Capture but lack freehand & development. Always open to new ones.
I have been using PicPick for several years and it's marvelous. Very user friendly and convenient to use.
The only problem I've had is with scrolling capture, which I use often to save large sections of web pages as graphics. many times, the page begins to scroll and then stops. I've also noticed different behavior with different browsers. On the other hand, I've found that scrolling capture in ShareX (listed here recently as well) works a treat. So far it hasn't failed me on any web page or any browser. Unfortunately, I don't find ShareX nearly as convenient to use as PicPick. It doesn't have an editor and I find saving captured files to be non-intuitive and a bit of a nuisance.
PicPick is a good product but I'm staying with [edited] as the latter is less encumbered and very easy to use.
{moderator's note: commercial software edited out.}
PicPick has been my go-to tool for screen captures, editing and image conversions since first reading about it at Gizmo's (then known as Tech Support Alert) well over a decade ago (I use the portable version). A bit of creativeness allows capturing an image larger than the screen with just a little extra effort. Five stars.
The problem with keyboard shortcuts is that you have to remember which ones are associated with what apps and unless you are using them on a daily basis you soon forget them. Some of the tips listed are pretty good although I had to laugh at #15.... carrying a debit card that allows access to an ATM makes more sense.
One or two caught my eye as not being something I would do without a little more poking around for information, like this one: "Laptop batteries can last longer if you charge them up to only 80% instead of the full 100%" I haven't done checked that one out, but I would before started that as a habit. And #30, buying a product on Amazon, and getting a refund if there's is a price drop within 7 days - I think amazon is in the process of discontining that.
You have an interesting idea of an “emergency” if you always have access to an ATM anytime and anywhere :).
Quote re Dropbox hack:
"Carousel is no longer supported
On March 31, we shut down Carousel and returned to a single Dropbox photo experience. Your photos are still safely backed up and accessible in the Dropbox desktop application, mobile app, and online at photos.dropbox.com."
Maybe you know several places that accept paper money but not debit and are some distance from an ATM but I can't think of one in the city where I live.
I think the laptop battery tip only applies to the first usage. Your probably not going to be able to prevent your laptop from bringing the battery to full charge on sub sequence instances anyway.
Ok, I’ll bite. Not many, but some - but that’s not really the point. If you were aware of these places, then it wouldn’t be an emergency. You’d know ahead of time that you’d need cash. By definition, an emergency is something you aren’t expecting. I agree- in a big city this is less likely to be an issue than traveling for example, or in an unfamiliar area. But even around home or in a big city, this is a good tip for some people. If you really can’t think of any situations when having emergency cash would be useful - and don’t have access to ATM/Debit, here are some.
Heaven forbid your wallet gets lost or stolen. It would be handy to have some cash hiding in your phone case, until you can get that sorted out.
Standing in a checkout with a bunch of groceries and your card is declined for no apparent reason. Maybe a bank error. Glitches happen – cards have issues swiping or scanning sometimes. Surely you’ve been in line behind someone whose card just won’t swipe - the cashier breathes on it, licks it and wipes it on their pants, sticks it on their forehead, rubs it in their armpit, then wraps it paper - trying to get a good swipe. Sometimes cards or scanners just fail. Maybe that’s the guy in front of you, maybe that’s you :). Sure – you can leave all your groceries on the counter and go to an ATM and get some cash, or go to your bank and sort it out – assuming your bank is open – but that’s a bit inconvenient either way. Or you can pull out your emergency cash and be on your way..
Go out for a night with friends and forgot your wallet at home. You can borrow some money from your friends, or pay your own way with your secret “phone cash”.
Maybe you’ve spent more money than you realize and have none left in your account – or you have a shared account and didn’t realize your spouse/partner had made a big purchase and drained the account. Glitch with your payroll deposit…
Even in a big city – while traveling, your bank locks down your account due to “suspicious activity”. That’s happened to many people, myself included. Sure you can call them and get that sorted out- but when do you usually find out for the first time? – When you’re standing in front of a cashier trying to pay for something.
Maybe you didn’t notice that your card had expired. No problem – leave some collateral for the store/restaurant/gas station you’re at, go home and find the new card - then go back and pay for your items. Maybe not an emergency, but inconvenient. Would be nice if you just had $50 hiding in your phone case :).
Pull into a gas station running on fumes and see a sign on the door – “Network is down - sorry cash only”. Drive to another gas station? To an ATM and back? Not sure you’ll have enough gas to make it... Take a chance, or walk to the nearest ATM. Broad daylight in a nice area? No problem. Late at night in a scary neighborhood? Pouring rain? Even $10 cash would be really handy to get you on your way.
Those are just some examples that could happen in a big city scenario- never mind traveling or more rural areas or long stretches of highway with fewer ATMs and credit/debit access. Many people don’t live in big cities and having paper money available “just in case” could be a good idea. If you don’t this is useful - that’s cool :). I didn’t think it was such a ridiculous tip :).
I ran into one of these scenarios the other day. I was getting my oil changed at the small, family owned business I use in the town that's nearest to me. The service that allows them to process electronic transactions using debit and credit cards wasn't working and the phone company that provides the service said they wouldn't have it back up and running for a few days because they had to send someone from another state to fix it, even though the largest city in the state is half an hour away.
Thanks a lot :)
There are many tips which I did not know. In fact I used #3 tip to reopen Gizmo to post the comment, previously I used to "right mouse click undo".
Regards,
Anand
You're welcome, I'm glad you found it useful. :)
I like tips and tricks, thanks. For a little more granular control than the spacebar, up and down arrows.
printer tip for no black ink, thanks
You're welcome. :)
Thanks for the tip. :)
Go. Read. Be amazed.
I personally have never had access to any text that so completely breaks down the concepts involved in programming. The indices alone are more complete and detailed than most college and tech school textboooks.
Good find! Downloading..............
Reverse Engineering is a lot like trying to understand why women are obsessed with shoe sales or if your a women, why men are willing to spend hours tinkering with a carburetor. It's pretty interesting stuff even when there are no clear answers to these questions.
Or why women are silly, empty-headed and obsessed with looks and getting something pretty cheap, but men are willing to put hours of intellectual effort and skill into something. I think your sexism has no place anywhere, certainly not on a techie blog where a lot of people are women. I was a consumer electronics designer and find your remark very insulting indeed.
Change "women" to "some people" and "men" to "some people" . (Unless you are doing sales surveys for product advertisers, perhaps)
Why is avast! Mobile Security the recommended anti-malware program here, when the Best Free Antivirus App for Android list shows 3 other programs all scored 5 stars while avast! is only 4 stars?
Re: CM Security Antivirus App Lock
CM Security also offer CM Security Lite - Antivirus which uses less power, less memory and has fewer ads.
It seems to work quite satisfactorily.
https://play.google.com/store/apps/details?id=com.cmsecurity.lite
As long as you aren't rooting, no one needs an antivirus on your phone.
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