WorkshopWiki - finding, downloading, installing and using new software

Monday, January 29, 2007\nAvast License\n\nDear user,\nYour registration of avast! 4 Home Edition was successful. Please, insert\nthe license key into avast! program as per instructions below. This\nregistration is valid for 12 months and needs to be renewed when that time\nhas elapsed. This can be done simply by filling in our registration form and\ninserting a new key into the program.\n\nYour license key is\n\n---------- cut here ----------\nW43096224H3700A1106-7MVZZ4L6\n---------- cut here ----------\n\nThe license conditions of our Home Edition allow you to use that key for\nhome, personal and non-commercial use on Windows workstation operating\nsystems only.\n\nCommercial versions of avast! can be found at\nhttp://www.avast.com/eng/products.html.\n\nYou can try our commercial (shareware) products (with the exception of\navast! BART CD) for 60 days free of charge.\n\nYou can buy avast! 4 Professional & other Editions at our Share*It online\nshop at: http://www.avast.com/eng/desktop_solutions.html.\n\nIf you have avast! already installed, check that you are using at least version 4.6 and go to step 5), otherwise start on 1):\n\n1) Download the installation file of avast! 4 Home Edition from the\nfollowing webpage http://www.avast.com/eng/download-avast-home.html\n2) Once downloaded, Double-click the downloaded file and follow the\non-screen instructions. You are strongly recommended to exit all other\nWindows programs before undertaking this install.\n3) After installation you will be prompted to restart your computer - please\nrestart it.\n4) After restarting, you will see the blue a-ball icon in your system tray,\nnear the clock.\n\nInsert the license key into avast!4 this way:\n5) Right-click the blue icon representing the resident protection in the\nsystem tray and choose "About avast!", or in the simple interface choose\n'Help' -> 'About avast!...'.\n6) Press the "License key" button in the lower right corner.\n7) Enter the license key into presented text dialog.\nWe recommend that you copy & paste to enter it exactly as above into avast!\n- mark (highlight) registration key in this e-mail, insert it into the\nclipboard (by pressing CTRL+C keys together) and insert (paste) the license\nkey from the clipboard into the text dialog (by pressing CTRL+V keys\ntogether).\n8) Press OK.\n\nIf you are unsure, the procedure of inserting the key into the program is\nshown in our video - http://www.avast.com/files/tutorials/insert_key.htm.\n\nUpdates work in two distinct ways in our Home Edition: virus database\nupdates are automatic, and should require no user intervention; new updates\nof the software are announced by a blue notification window and will need to\nbe run manually.\n\nThank you for choosing avast! antivirus software.\n\nRegards\nThe ALWIL Software team.\n\n</html>

# Get names and email addresses.\n# Get questions that have emerged.\n# Review homework.\n# Present lesson plan.

Examine the 7-Zip site and download page.\nDiscuss ProgramVintage\nDownload and install 7-Zip.\nExplore the use of 7-Zip.\nLook at the 7-Zip infrastructure.\n\nAdditional ???\nReview TheMagicEgg\nReview TermDefinitions\nFollow some WorkshopLinks

Get email addresses (Bob Riech)\n\nhttp://cybercoyote.org/workshop/notes.html\nCDAD440A8A -- Town Center\npspohn1733ht\nbookmarks.html\ncopy of Wiki\nAvast! license\nAvast! file 4.6 -- avast-su.exe\n9Yfw3pux2

Select a downloader to solve the problem of downloading over dial-up. (Did Vern try Firefox?)\n\nhttps://addons.mozilla.org/firefox/\nhttps://addons.mozilla.org/search.php?q=download+manager&type=E&app=firefox\n\nhttp://flashgot.net/\nhttp://lists.thedatalist.com/pages/Download_Tools.htm\nhttp://www.safer-networking.org/en/articles/download-managers.html\nhttp://www.techsupportalert.com/best_46_free_utilities.htm#33\nhttp://www.freedownloadmanager.org/\nhttp://www.leechget.net/en/\nhttp://www.metaproducts.com/mp/MetaProducts_Download_Express.htm\n\nWorkshopLinks

Complete Installation of Adobe Reader, and install Foxit too (both are in ..\sdownloads\s).\n\nhttp://windirstat.info/ -- from Windows Secrets Newsletter - paid version\n\nhttp://www.msfn.org/comments.php?shownews=19517 - Recuva\n\nhttp://www.msfn.org/comments.php?shownews=19516 - IE7 Pro\n\nhttp://notepad-plus.sourceforge.net/uk/site.htm -- Notepad++\n\nExplore the resources to use in [[finding safe software|FindingSoftware]]. (Edit WorkshopLinks so they are ready for the session.)\n\nLook back at previous lesson plans

[[Microsoft Photo Info|http://www.microsoft.com/windowsxp/using/digitalphotography/prophoto/photoinfo.mspx]] -- WGA plus .Net 2.0 (downloaded to Medion already)\n[[SIW - System Information for Windows|http://www.gtopala.com/index.html]]

WorkshopWiki

''Clicking (or double-clicking)'' a file (or shortcut) tells the operating system (Windows) to load that specific program file (the main executable) into memory and execute the first set of instructions that it finds there. After that the (loaded) executable is in charge. It will probably tell Windows to load more files into memory, and then have Windows execute more instructions.\n\nIt makes no difference if the program (executable) file is an "installer" or a "program" file. They are both executable file (they give instructions to Windows). See TheMagicEgg.\n\nNote: Some computers are set up to initiate action with a single click. Others (this is the way I like it) require a double click anywhere but the Start Menu (or Quick Launch toolbar). A shortcut on the Desktop is exactly the same as one in the Start Menu, but it requires a double-click there and only a single-click in the Start Menu.

Work in progress.\n\nFlashGet / FlashGot\n[[Review of download managers|http://www.safer-networking.org/en/articles/download-managers.html]] -- because they are a prime target of evil-doers.\n

''Downloading and installing software is scary.'' [[Nick Bradbury|http://nick.typepad.com/blog/2006/12/desktop_softwar.html]] mentions a couple of reasons:\n\n>When you try to download something, you're presented with a security warning about how the software could potentially harm your computer. If you install the program despite this warning, your firewall often displays an intimidating dialog asking whether you really want to trust this application enough to let it talk to the outside world. It's a one-two punch that's driving away many would-be users of desktop software.\n\n''One goal of our Software Workshop is to overcome the fear.'' We'll learn what to watch out for, how to defend ourselves, and how to avoid trouble installing and uninstalling software.\n\n''There are all sorts of dirty tricks and malicious software on the Internet.'' The first line of defense is knowing how to [[find safe software|FindingSoftware]]. Even then there are [[other precautions to take|SafeSoftwarePractice]].\n\n''Another source of fear is the uncertainty involved [[downloading|DownloadingSoftware]] and [[installing|InstallingSoftware]] software.'' We'll work to understand what's going on during these processes.\n\n''Dealing with [[conflicts that arise|ProgramConflicts]] when you install and use software, and the process of [[uninstalling programs|UninstallingSoftware]] round out the knowledge we need to not be fearful.

''This Workshop Wiki is entirely [[self-contained|http://www.tiddlywiki.com/#SelfContained]] in a single HTML file,'' which includes the the JavaScript, Cascading Style Sheets and HTML necessary to both view and edit it. You can download a copy for yourself, and even edit it using Firefox or Internet Explorer 7. \n\nSimply right-click [[this link|http://cybercoyote.org/classes/software-dl/wiki.html]] and select either "Save link as..." or "Save target as..." to save it to a location on your hard-drive. Go to EditWiki if you want to edit it after you've downloaded it. Problems? See [[DownloadSoftware|http://www.tiddlywiki.com/#DownloadSoftware]] or [[SaveUnpredictabilities|http://www.tiddlywiki.com/#SaveUnpredictabilities]] (external site).

This tiddler is more or less a placeholder, except for this link -- SafeSoftwarePractice -- for now.\n\nPlan: This tiddler will link to the steps (tiddlers) in the download process.\n\nContent: \n[[Download Managers]]\n[[Organize Downloads]]\n[[Workshop Links|WorkshopLinks]]\nftp/html

You must [[download this wiki|DownloadWorkshopWiki]] before you can save your edits. You may need to modify some of the following tiddlers if your editing is extensive:\n* SiteTitle & SiteSubtitle: The title and subtitle of the site, as shown above (after saving, they will also appear in the browser title bar).\n* MainMenu: The content menu (usually on the left).\n* DefaultTiddlers: Contains the names of the tiddlers that you want to appear when your copy of this WorkshopWiki is opened.\nEnter your username here instead of mine to sign your edits personally: <<option txtUserName>>\n*The QuickStart tiddler has links to some sites that will provide editing help.\n*Use Firefox or Internet Explorer 7 to edit this wiki.\n*[[More about editing TiddlyWikis|http://www.tiddlywiki.com/#SaveChanges]]

!! Ways to find safe software, and avoid evil software:\n* ''Get your software at a '' [[place you know and trust.|WorkshopLinks]] You have about the same odds as Russian roulette anywhere else. :-) \n* ''Install [[McAfee SiteAdvisor|http://www.siteadvisor.com/]] just to make sure.'' (There are separate versions for Firefox and Internet Explorer. Visit their site with the browser you're going to use.)\n* SafeSoftwarePractice describes more precautions you can take.\n* ''My [[safer software search engine|http://www.google.com/coop/cse?cx=016606351129599864745%3Ao_w5irkbjdk]]'' limits your search to sites where software is usually safe.\n!! More ways to find software:\n* Regular search engines can be a good way to find software, but be careful not to land at a bogus site. [[McAfee SiteAdvisor|http://www.siteadvisor.com/]] will help you separate the good from the bad.\n* Try using Wikipedia to search for software, but remain on guard even there.\n\n\n

!! Key steps in the install step of process:\n# Locate the installation file that you [[downloaded|DownloadingSoftware]].\n# DoubleClick that file to start installing the program. (If you have it on a CD, it may run automatically.)\n# Work through the process until installation is complete.\n# Start the newly installed program and set it up the way you want it.\n!! More information:\n* See TheMagicEgg for a perspective on what happens when you install a program.\n* See the [[installation process|http://www.soletesoftware.com/installingguide.htm]] defined at Solete Software for more complete instructions for this step.\n*''See InstallingSoftware for all the steps in the software installation process.''

Most installation conflicts occur when you attempt to install a new version of a program "over" an older version. It's good practice to uninstall an older version of a program unless you have specific instructions to not to. However, if you're installing an "update" it's rarely necessary unless you are instructed to do so.\n\nSecurity programs can interfer with program installation too -- even if they have not done so previously. Sometimes you will not know that there was interference, but the program won't work. It's always best to disable or exit security programs when you install other programs. ''Don't forget to reinstate them when you're finished though.''\n\nIt's rare but possible to have installation conflict with another program. If you think that may be the case, you should research the possibility at the program's website.

An installer file installs [[programs|TheProgram]]. Duh! Most installers are [[executable files|DoubleClick]] themselves. They may come packed in a ZipFile, which must be unzipped (unpacked) first to access the installer. Installer files contain both the [[program contents|TheProgram]] to be installed, and the instructions that direct the program installation.

''Steps:''\n#[[Back up everything|http://cybercoyote.org/computer/backup.shtml]] that's important to you. You never know what can go wrong.\n#Review the software you're going to install to be sure that you trust your computer with it.\n#Be sure you're running in "Administrator" mode (if you don't know what that means you probably are already in that mode).\n#Disable security software that would interfer with the installation process.\n#[[Start the install process|InstallStep]], and follow it through to completion.\n#''Don't forget to start or enable your security programs when you've finished installing new software.''\n#Restart your computer before you start the program if the install process tells you to.\n#Start the program at least once. This often completes some initial action.\n#Set preferences from the menu [Edit > Preferences] or [View > Options] or [Tools > Preferences] or [Tools > Options]. You may have to access options from the SystemTray instead.

!!!!Introduction\n[[Welcome|WorkshopWiki]]\nWikiIndex\nQuickStart\n!!!!Primary Topics\n[[Fear of Downloading|DownloadFear]]\n[[Definition of Terms|TermDefinitions]]\n[[Finding Safe Software|FindingSoftware]]\n[[Safe Software Practice|SafeSoftwarePractice]]\n[[Downloading Software|DownloadingSoftware]]\n[[Installing Software|InstallingSoftware]]\n[[Installation Conflicts|InstallationConflicts]]\n[[Uninstalling Software|UninstallingSoftware]]\n!!!!Resources\n[[Tools|PrimaryTools]]\n[[Session Plans|Session Plans]]\n[[Workshop Links|WorkshopLinks]]\n!!!!External Links\n[[Disclaimer|http://cybercoyote.org/disclaim.shtml]]\n[[HTCC Website|http://cybercoyote.org/]]\n[[Contact Phil Spohn|http://cybercoyote.org/webmaster.htm]]\n[[Download this Wiki|DownloadWorkshopWiki]]\n[[Edit this Wiki Yourself|EditWiki]]

Ed Bott suggests a simple but effective way to keep track of not only downloads, but the essential information that goes with them.\nhttp://www.edbott.com/weblog/?p=693 -- getting them organized\nhttp://www.edbott.com/weblog/?p=1254</a> -- keeping them organized\n\n\n*[[Review of download managers|http://www.safer-networking.org/en/articles/download-managers.html]] -- because they are a prime target of evil-doers.

You can view my online profile [[here|http://www2.blogger.com/profile/16168111626943967459]].

''Windows Explorer:'' It's handy, if not essential, to know how to use Windows Explorer when downloading, installing and using software. These two tutorials, one [[from Duke|http://www.duke.edu/~dhewitt/tutorials/explorer/explor.html]] and one [[from Microsoft|http://www.microsoft.com/resources/documentation/windows/xp/all/proddocs/en-us/app_win_explorer.mspx?mfr=true]] should help you get started using Windows Explorer.

The [[7-Zip page|http://www.7-zip.org/]] is a good example of program versions presented clearly and correctly. The "latest" version is shown in the top table, and the "beta" version is shown below it. That's usually the way things are done.\n\nNotice that the date of the latest version is earlier than the date of the beta. That's because latest version was frozen when it was released, and then changes from that point are represented in the beta version. Normally it's best to go with the "latest", otherwise called "stable", "released" version.\n\nNormally you want the 32-bit Windows version, which happens to be packaged in an *.exe file. The *.msi file is also an executable but it is packaged for an x64 computer, meaning 64-bits.

''Don't worry, you won't break this wiki or your browser.'' The easiest way to learn about this WorkshopWiki is to use it! But first, there are @@bgcolor(#fff):color(#f00):some clues below.@@ :-)\n!!Reading this Wiki\n*''Tiddlers, such as this QuickStart tiddler, are concise content blocks.''\n*''Tiddler links often consist of two capitalized words run together,'' for example QuickStart or WikiIndex.\n*''There is an index in the right hand column of this wiki.''(Notice the tabs -- ''|Timeline|All|Tags|More|''.) The ''"All"'' tab, for example, lists all the Tiddlers, including some that have no links leading to them.\n*You can open as many tiddlers as you like, but it's good to close some if you get too many open at once.\n!!Closing tiddlers:\n*''Hover your mouse pointer over this tiddler. A mini-menu will pop up just above it.''\n**Click <<tag close>> (in the menu) to close ''this tiddler''.\n**Click <<tag close.others>> to close ''all tiddlers except this one.''\n**Click ''<<closeAll>>'' at the ''top'' of the ''right-hand column'' to close ''all the tiddlers.'' Duh. :-)\n*''NOTE: You can always get back here again by clicking QuickStart in the main menu at the left.''\n!!More help with Wikis:\n*''http://www.giffmex.org/twfortherestofus.html -- tutorial''\n*''http://www.tiddlywiki.com/ -- [[TiddlyWiki|http://www.tiddlywiki.com/]] home page''\n*''http://trac.tiddlywiki.org/tiddlywiki/wiki -- [[TiddlyWiki.org|http://trac.tiddlywiki.org/tiddlywiki/wiki]]''\n!! Some tips:\n*''Font Size:'' Hold down the "Ctrl" on your keyboard and scroll your mouse wheel to increase or decrease font size when reading this wiki. ''Alternative:'' Use [View > Text Size > Larger] in your browser menu.\n*''Files:'' Everything about downloading, installing and using programs will go much better if you [[learn to use Windows Explorer|http://cybercoyote.org/classes/explorer/index.html]].

!! Safe Software Practice:\n*''Rule #1: Never download software from BitTorrent or any other file-sharing network.\n*''Rule #2: Dowload software only from [[sources you know you can trust|http://cybercoyote.org/internet/download.shtml]].'' (It's reasonable to download software that you learn about from a source you trust.)\n*''Rule #3: Software that is recommended or offered out of the blue is evil until you have proof otherwise.'' This applies in particular to [[urgent warnings|http://cybercoyote.org/security/spyware.shtml#bogus]] that insist you need to take immediate action. ;-)\n*''Rule #4: Stick with free or personal-use versions of programs you've heard if you're not confident that you know how to pick safe software.'' The vendor hopes you will upgrade or recommend the program, so is not likely to include malware.\n* ''Rule #5: Install [[McAfee SiteAdvisor|http://www.siteadvisor.com/]].'' It will steer you away from most evil download sites. (There are similar but separate versions of [[SiteAdvisor|http://www.siteadvisor.com/]] for Firefox and Internet Explorer. Go to the site with the browser you're going to use.)\n!! More Safeguards:\n* The safer version of my [[software search engine|http://cybercoyote.org/software/google-custom.shtml]] limits your search to sites where software is usually safe.\n* Regular search engines are good for finding software that you already know about, but be careful not to download it from a bogus site. That's where [[McAfee SiteAdvisor|http://www.siteadvisor.com/]] helps.\n*Use [[online services|http://cybercoyote.org/security/online.shtml]] to screen files before you download them.\n*The [[review of download managers|http://www.safer-networking.org/en/articles/download-managers.html]] will give you an idea of what to watch out for. There are similar rogue sites for screen-savers, free ring-tones, games, Paris Hilton, etc. ;-)

''Look for Session Plans under the "All" tab in the right-hand column, e.g., ''[[4. Feb 14, 2007|4. Feb 14, 2007]]\n\n''Heh, Got any ideas yourself?'' Tell me about them in the workshop, or [[send them to me|http://cybercoyote.org/webmaster.htm]] if you're afraid you'll forget them. :-)

finding, downloading, installing and using new software

WorkshopWiki

''Basic computing terms are not used consistently'' -- Linux, and Unix users tend to use terms that are different from those in the Windows World. That would maybe be OK if they were kept separate, but they get all mixed together in both worlds. ''The result is a babel of terms that obscures simple concepts.''\n!!! Here's a few that come to mind:\n* ''Open'', ''Run'', ''Start'', and ''Execute'' all are used to label the same thing, namely the operation that loads a program into memory and initiates program action.\n* ''Program'', ''Executable'', ''Software'' and sometimes just ''File'' are used interchangeably. In my not so humble opinion, software is what it takes to make a program run, but who's to quibble if one is called the other?\n* ''Folders'' and ''Directories'' are the same thing, just (symbolic) containers to keep files in.\n* ''Icons'', ''Shortcuts'', ''Bookmarks'' and ''Favorites'' are all used to describe ''proxies'' for the real thing. Clicking (or double-clicking) a shortcut (or icon) does the same thing as clicking (or double-clicking) the real thing. The proxy is just more conveniently located for quick access. See DoubleClick.\n* ''There is major confusion in people's minds'' between the ''installer files'' you download and the ''program files'' that you then run (or open, start, etc.). Both of them are ''executable files'', they just have different purposes. See TheMagicEgg.\n!!! Sorting files out\n* A ''file'' is a collection of contiguous digital data packaged in a standard format. In other words, it's a defined packet of data. It usually resides on a hard drive or other digital storage media like a CD. It can be "attached" to an email message, downloaded or otherwise transmitted from one computer to another.\n* ''There are two basic types of files -- executable and data''. A text file, Word document or email message exists as a data file. An executable file contains instructions that the operating system (Windows) executes. The operating system must load the executable (put a copy in memory) before it can read the instructions.\n* A ''program'' may consist of a single executable file, but usually it is a collection of several or many files. Some of them are data files and some are executables. Executable files have extensions like *.exe, *.dll and *.msi (Microsoft Installer File).\n* ''Software'' is just a catch-all term, used to mean programs, associated data files, drivers, executables, etc. It is not used for stand-alone data files. \n

!!! Just for review, the the steps in the installation process:\n# Find/select the program to install.\n# Download the file from the Internet [or open the box that it came in]. :)\n# DoubleClick that file to start installing the program. (If you have it on a CD, it may run automatically.)\n# Work through the process until installation is complete.\n# Start the newly installed program and set it up the way you want it.\n!!! A closer look at the installation process:\n''I'll use an analogy to give the concept some structure.'' Think of the file you download (or get on CD) as TheMagicEgg. Everything needed to create a --chick-- program is inside the --egg-- file. I.e., the --egg-- file contains a potential --chick-- program. When the --egg hatches-- file runs it extracts the program and installs it on your hard drive. ''There is no further use for the --egg-- file -- its job is done.''\n\n''It's easy to be confused about the role of --the egg-- [[the installer file|InstallerFile]].'' That may be because the installer is a program itself, in the form of a [[single executable|TheProgram]]. When you DoubleClick the installer, Windows loads it into memory and executes the instructions that it finds there. That's of course what happens when you start Word, Internet Explorer or Solitare. ''The difference is that --hatching the egg-- running the installer is a one-time job.''\n\n''When you run (double-clicked) the installer file,'' it instructs Windows to extract all the files that make up the program and store them on the hard drive. It may have also write some entries in the Windows registry, and create new program shortcuts in the Start menu. ''There is no further role for the --egg-- installer'' after that.\n\n''The --chick-- program is now a new, independent entity in it's own right.'' You bring the program to life by finding and clicking it's (new) shortcut in the Start Menu. If you stop the program you do the same thing again to restart it. ''You do not go back and re-run the installer.''\n!!! Here's where the magic -- and maybe more confusion -- comes in.\n''The installation file is magic. It's not just an empty shell.'' The original contents and recipe ''are still there'' even though --the chick has hatched-- you have installed the program. You could use the installer again to re-install the program, or to install it on another computer. You could also delete it, because the --chick-- new program doesn't need it any more.\n\n''In summary, you never run your new program from the installation file.'' Installing the program was a ''one-time process''. From now on you start the program from ''its own shortcut'' in the Start Menu, Quick Start area or wherever else you create a shortcut.

Programs, also called applications, are simply software that sits on top of the underlying computer system and produce results of some kind. The computer system itself contains a vast amount of software, some of which is the foundation on which programs stand. Microsoft Word, Firefox, Easy CD Creator, PhotoShop, etc. are examples of programs.\n\nPrograms can be a single executable file, but most of them consist of a central executable file, plus a wide assortment of data files and other executable files. Most of these files reside in the program's program folder, which is usually located in the Program Files folder/directory. Some of them may reside someware in the C:\sWindows folder or it's sub-folders.\n\nC:\sProgram Files\sProgram (Name)\s is the typical path to a program's folder. Programs can be started by running the central executable directly, or by using a shortcut that points to the central program executable. It would have the form C:\sProgram Files\sProgram (Name)\sprogram(name).exe.

!! General Precautions:\n* Exit any program windows that you have open.\n* Disable or exit antivirus, antispyware and watchdog programs before uninstalling software.\n* Answer "No", if you're informed that other programs may be using a file, and asked if you want to delete it. (A few extra files on your hard drive are never a problem.)\n* ''Don't forget to reinstate your security programs when you've finished installing software.''\n* It's a good idea to restart your computer after you uninstall a program before you install any new programs.\n!! Where to find the uninstall process -- try these in the order listed:\n# ''Try [Start > Control Panel > Add and Remove Programs]:'' Scroll to the program you want to uninstall and click "Change/Remove".\n# ''Use [Start > All Programs]:'' Look for the program's folder and see if there is an "Uninstall" shortcut to click.\n# If these fail, reinstall the program and then try to uninstall it again. (That's why it's a good idea to retain the original installation file.)\n# Try uninstalling the program [[manually|http://www.theeldergeek.com/manually_uninstall_programs.htm]].

!! Major elements of this Workshop Wiki:\n*[[Definition of Terms|TermDefinitions]]\n*[[Fear of Downloading|DownloadFear]]: How to overcome your fear of downloading (uncertainty about what, where, how; fear of viruses and spyware; fear of damaging your computer)\n*[[Finding Safe Software|FindingSoftware]] (where to look, how to choose)\n*[[Safe Software Practice|SafeSoftwarePractice]]: How to be sure you don't pick up a nasty ITD (Internet Transmitted Disease).\n*[[Downloading Software|DownloadingSoftware]]: How to handle the download process.\n*[[Installing Software|InstallingSoftware]]: (precautions)\n*[[Installation Conflicts|InstallationConflicts]]: (managing conflict, choosing\n*[[Uninstalling Software|UninstallingSoftware]]: (tips, precautions)\n*[[Workshop Links|WorkshopLinks]]\n!! Workshop Sessions:\n[[Feb 1, 2007|1. Feb 1, 2007]]\n[[Feb 8, 2007|2. Feb 8, 2007]]

!!Download Safety and Precautions:\n*[[Finding Safe Software|FindingSoftware]]\n*[[How to Download Software (Safely)|http://cybercoyote.org/internet/download.shtml]]\n*[[Handling Files and Attachments Safely|http://cybercoyote.org/security/safe-files.shtml]]\n*[[Review of download managers|http://www.safer-networking.org/en/articles/download-managers.html]] -- because they are a prime target of evil-doers.\n!!Places where the software you find is generally safe:\n*[[Some of my Favorite Software|http://cybercoyote.org/software/favorite.shtml]]\n*[[DMOZ Freeware Directory|http://dmoz.org/Computers/Software/Freeware/]]\n*[[Best Shareware and Freeware Sites|http://www.techsupportalert.com/best_shareware_sites.htm]]\n*[[Download Squad|http://www.downloadsquad.com]]\n*[[Nonags|http://www.nonags.com/]]\n*[[Microsoft Downloads|http://www.microsoft.com/downloads/search.asp]]\n!!Lists where the software you find is generally safe:\n*[[Some of my favorite programs|http://cybercoyote.org/software/favorite.shtml]]\n*[[PC Magazine - 01.31.07|http://www.pcmag.com/article2/0,1759,2090787,00.asp?kc=PCRSS05079TX1K0000992]]\n*[[30 Essential Pieces Of Free (and Open) Software for Windows|http://www.thesimpledollar.com/2006/12/01/30-essential-pieces-of-free-and-open-software-for-windows]] \n*[[The Best Free Software -- PC Magazine|http://www.pcmag.com/article2/0,1895,2090787,00.asp]]\n*[[The 46 Best-ever Freeware Utilities|http://www.techsupportalert.com/best_46_free_utilities.htm]]\n*[[Neowin's Freeware Alternative List - Neowin Forums|http://www.neowin.net/forum/index.php?showtopic=320017]]\n*[[List of Lists|http://lists.thedatalist.com/index.html]]\n*[[Download Tools|http://lists.thedatalist.com/pages/Download_Tools.htm]]\n*[[Freeware Tools and Utilities for Windows|http://www.nirsoft.net/utils/index.html]]\n*[[DonationCoder Best Of 2006|http://www.donationcoder.com/2006/index1.php]]\n!!Examples of major applications that are safe:\n*[[GIMP -- a free PhotoShop-like photo editor for Windows|http://www.gimp.org/windows]] {[[more|http://www.gimpshop.net]]}\n*[[Foxit Reader -- lightweight alternative to Adobe Reader|http://www.foxitsoftware.com/pdf/rd_intro.php]]\n*[[PC World Downloads - FlashGet|http://www.pcworld.com/downloads/file/fid,6898-order,1-page,1-c,alldownloads/description.html]]\n*[[Paint.NET|http://www.getpaint.net/index2.html]]\n*[[EverNote - A single place for all your notes!|http://www.evernote.com/en]]\n*[[PC World - PC World Downloads - TrueCrypt|http://www.pcworld.com/downloads/file/fid,63661-page,1-c,downloads/description.htm]]\n!!Widgets:\nThis [[statement at Wigipedia|http://www.widgipedia.com/]] gives the general idea of what to expect about the safety of files from widget sites.\n*[[Wigipedia|http://www.widgipedia.com/]]\n*[[Time Waster|http://www.downloadsquad.com/2006/12/09/mini-golf-pro--todays-time-waster]]\n*[[FileShack - Railroad Tycoon - Free Game|http://www.fileshack.com/file.x/9853/Railroad+Tycoon+-+Free+Game]]\n*[[WinDirStat - What's filling your hard drive?|http://windirstat.info]]\n*[[Mini Golf Pro - Today's Time Waster - Download Squad|http://www.downloadsquad.com/2006/12/09/mini-golf-pro--todays-time-waster]]\n*[[http://www.nirsoft.net/utils/index.html|http://www.nirsoft.net/utils/index.html]]

!! Welcome to this Wiki for the HTCC Software Download Workshop!\n''Purpose: Capture and extend our workshop sessions.'' This wiki reduces your need to take notes during our sessions; lets you pay more attention to what we're doing; and captures and organizes what you'll need to do things on your own. It extends the workshop by providing details that would be tedious to cover in the workshop. This wiki also helps bridge sessions you can't attend. :-)\n\n''If you're baffled about using WorkshopWiki, click QuickStart to get started.'' The WikiIndex tiddler or the main menu in the left column will give you access to the content. You can [[download this wiki|DownloadWorkshopWiki]] to keep on your hard drive or [[edit|EditWiki]] it for yourself.