RECOMMENDATIONS

We are often asked what software or other computer products we use or recommend. Generally, that’s not a simple question because each user situation is unique. We match our client’s needs and special circumstances with the best solution, then implement that solution for best results. If you would like help with product recommendations or selections, contact us as saiaz.net.

Here are some examples of outstanding products that are either "best in class" or offer a unique capability.

Spam control – this is a real moving target. Programs that use algorithms to identify spam can’t keep up. Using rules in the Email client also isn’t effective. The spammers keep changing the formats and delivery to beat the latest systems. I’ve now found a Spam blocker that works! It uses the "white list" method rather than mail analysis. The program builds a list of ok senders from your address book and mailbox. Any mail from somebody not on the white list is quarantined. You review the quarantine folder at your convenience and approve any new senders. They are added to your white list. The program is easier to teach than any I’ve seen. It works! The product is Qurb, and it’s a no-brainer to try, and inexpensive to buy.

PC Backup - the most basic PC protection is often the most overlooked. There are scores of backup solutions, so it's a matter of picking a good one and putting it to work. We have settled on Genie Backup because it covers the bases better than most: easy to install, multiple schedules allowed, backs up Email, files and programs. a deciding factor for me was that it does not use a proprietary compression format.  I can use WinZip to examine and extract from the backup files. There are several versions; the two we use are the Pro and the Home versions.

Genie Backup Manager Home Edition

Genie Backup Manager Professional Edition

Internet Filter - we found this product when searching for a transparent, easy to use filter for a customer that needed to block employee access to certain types of Internet sites. It not only handles the blocking of things like adult content sites, but also does a very good job of filtering out pop-ups, banners, and blocking privacy invasion cookies and referrers.  The product is FilterGate, and it can be trial tested.

Disk Image - who needs it?  Everyone.  It takes too long to setup a PC with all the software, settings, and customizations required.  If you have a hard drive crash, disabling virus, crippling spyware, or just make a bad choice in installing or operating you could loose your operating system and have to start over.  Make a disk image after setting up a PC, and before disaster strikes.  Reloading the image gets you back in operation faster.  We now do it on new office systems, and recommend it for home systems as well.  Acronis is one of the simplest and most versatile imaging packages.  There is a PC version, and a server version.

Pop-up blockers – we have tried several and not been generally satisfied with the user interface or result. The one I use is a free add-on from Google. Simply go to the Google home page, www.google.com and install their toolbar. The toolbar has other features like auto-completion, and news links that I don’t use (disable in Options). But the pop-up blocking is effective and simple. Plus I use Google as my default search engine so the pop-up control is a pleasant surprise.