We recently covered how horrible CNET’s download.com has become to install software, as everything on the site is wrapped in vicious crapware. CNET’s site isn’t the only culprit though, essentially any software aggregation site has some type of bloatware associated with it. Sites like Filehippo, Softpedia, and brothersoft all have their own version of an “install manager” that contain malware that installs toolbars and hijacks your homepage and default search engine. If you haven’t checked out our articles on how bad download.com has become, check them out:
CNET Joins the Dark Side, Attempts to Fill Your Computer with CrapwareConfirmed: CNET’s Download.com Gains Crapware Status
Yesterday, our coverage of download.com was discussed on Tech News Today on the TWiT network, and the panel members had some interesting discussion on the situation:
Where Do You Download Your Software From?
If you’re downloading essential quality Open Source software for your system, we recommend using Ninite.com. These guys maintain a quality site with the latest versions of the software, and it automatically opts you OUT of installing toolbars and other junk.
After all of this information, what we want to know is where you download software for your computer. Take a moment to join the conversation and leave us your thoughts in the comments! It links directly to the developer’s website and has a list of suggestions for similar apps. Hard to beat. @Ziggy been a while since I have done majorgeeks, as I recall it was decent and didn’t have lameware. <– that just came to me! Or how about “doucheware” LOL anyway.Yes, Ninite is the bomb. I covered their service when they first launched on another publication, and they are some cool cats. Thanks for the information about Ninite and Neat Net Tricks. Will give them a try. Question for the readers: Where is a good place to get live screensavers? Download.com has been my destination in the past (i.e.; Tropical Screensaver, etc). It would be nice to have an alternative location, that is SAFE, and has a GOOD SELECTION of free stuff…. I know about Ninite for a long time, but there are some programs that Ninite does not offer (like PDF-XChange Viewer). Anyway, great tool for those with less experience :-) Comment
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