Software Review

My goal was to download VersionTracker Pro 2.0 from the VersionTracker web site (versiontracker.com). First, I used Netscape 6.2 and, after filling out all the forms, I found NS 6.2 wasn't supported. Then I switched to Internet Explorer 5 and everything worked fine! The download (2.6 MB) on cable was totally painless - less than a minute.

It's really fun and easy to see just how up-to-date all my software is. How did I get along with out this in the past? The time saved by VersionTracker Pro will pay for it within a month.

Not only do I now keep my software updated by using VersionTracker Pro, I have signed up for an email list that lets me know when any new or updated software comes out in the categories I have selected for my Blue & White G3 running OS 9.2.2.

After I launch VersionTracker Pro from the control panel (or tool bar in OS X) I check out all my software versions, comparing them to the current version. I now have the choice of selecting the software and reading the synopsis in the box at the bottom of the window or double clicking on the software and launching the browser to go to the VersionTracker site to get the whole story.

The VersionTracker site not only has a description of the software and a "what's new in this version" section, but it also has a "review" section where you can read posts by users of that particular version. I like to use the review section to help me determine whether I want to download the software now or wait till later. If the software has received no reviews, not too favorable or bad reviews, but the program is something I might have a real use for in the future, I will place it on my "Pro Watch List" which is part of my personal "Pro" page. That way I can keep up on the updates and reviews when they are posted.

When there is an update for software I want right now, all I have to do is click the download button and it usually downloads to my desktop; however, some of the software manufacturers require you to go to their website to download the updates. If this is the case, VersionTracker launches my browser to the web page for the download.

Every few days or so, I find myself cruising the VersionTracker site (versiontracker.com) looking for pearls. My personal Pro page, which I have set up previously, will give me plenty of options, including freeware and shareware. If I want more choices, VersionTracker offers additional pages of OS X, Mac OS, Windows, and Palm OS software. Each of these pages offers long lists of new software that will whet the appetite of any computer geek. Occasionally I look at all kinds of software from these lists, too.

Rather than downloading the programs I am interested in as I find them, I place them in my "Download Cart." This works just like a shopping cart except that it doesn't empty when I leave the site. When I am finished browsing I can examine the contents of the cart, remove any items I don't want, and either download them then or wait until later.

VersionTracker Pro 2.0 adds a desktop client to proactively track software, compare and manage the updates and inventory software for up to 10 Macs. All this from one web-based console! VersionTracker Pro can also be used for security to ensure no one has installed software on your Macs that you don't want.

As a Pro user you have the options to turn off the ads on the site, giving you the ability to surf the site advertisement free. If you think keeping your software updated is important you have to have VersionTracker Pro 2.0. This is one of my favorite programs and at less than $50 a year it is a real bargain.

VersionTracker Pro 2.0 can be found at versiontracker.com.