NET11 Module 4 Net Tools
Task: Choose at least one program you don’t have, download it to your computer, experiment with it and reflet on the downloading process.
I had all the common applications suggested (PDF Reader, Quicktime…). I didn’t understand why we will want to use the offline browsers as this is a feature we can set up in our usual browsers. I didn’t trust Glooton and Bookmark Buddy based solely on the appearnace of their web site. So I decided to check Copernic (which web site looked more current Web 2.0) but to compare it to Google Desktop before downloading either application.
First, I checked each application’s features, which are very similiar. Both allow searching and indexing my computer and the web. Coopernic won Cnet Editor’s Choice Award but I am familiar and happy with other Google’s products. The Google Desktop was more than just a search utility. It offers other gadgets and integration to other Google Services, which is more than what I am looking for.
My concern was with security. Would my personal files be available to any other but myself? Do these applications secretly keep track of my personal files? I couldn’t find any information about security issues with either. So, I tried to check FAQ on Copernic and the Help pages on Google Desktop. On Copernic I found the following question:
I am concerned about the privacy of my personal data. What is your policy regarding privacy?
We understand your concerns and CDS was designed with your privacy in mind. Rest assured that the data indexed by CDS stays on your PC and on no account will it be transferred to us or any of our partners.
Furthermore, computer activity is never logged. It is solely monitored to enable or disable the indexing process.
Consult our software privacy policy for additional information.
Google Desktop had a full page with questions and answers in regards to privacy. It had answers to questions I didn’t even think of but found very important to know. It was more thorough and informative.
As a whole, I would be happy to use either application and my final judgement can only be after trying them out. But for this exercise I decided to try Copernic. I also liked that they do not log computer activity, just monitor it. So, here we go…
… later …
I liked that Copernic installed a small input field in my system tray and that’s it. Very low profile. Great. But then, I tried to search for something, and the web search came up. OK, I need to check the preferences. It needs time to index my computer. OK then, I will come back to it later. This gives me time to learn how to use it and to check about security measures if I uninstall it. I also opened the application’s options and changed a few settings.
… later …
Copernic finished indexing my computer. I typed in a word and pressed Enter. It again, opened up my browser and did a web search but it also opened a pop up with search results from my computer. So I learned I shouldn’t press enter to get the search results from my computer. I actually like it. I might keep it.