Choosing software for your devices

Software makes your devices perform something that you, the owner, considers “useful” and everyone has a different perception of what useful means. There are many ways to categorise software and, this section considers the following categories:

 

• Operating systems – the basic software that makes the device work – the most popular systems at the time of writing include Windows and OSx (Apple) as well as Android and iOS for tablets and smartphon There are others (Linux and Blackberry OS amongst them).
• Browsers – used to access the World Wide Web/ Some are pre-installed and linked to the operating system (Internet Explorer and Safari) and others are available as options (e.g. Firefox, Chrome, Opera, etc.)
• Drivers and other software needed to support peripherals such as printers, scanners, routers,
• Assorted utilities and tools pre-installed by the device vendor or a network provider, including crapware (software you don’t need, don’t want and would not install yourself)
• Anti-virus and security software – used to protect the device from malicious softwar
• Applications software (including Apps) that perform specific functions (ranging from office tools to photo and music editing, ) as well as entertainment (games, social media, etc.).

 

All of the above are available as licensed (and paid for) software, as shareware (the designer and distributor would like a non-obligatory financial contribution) and freeware (no charge to download and use). Some freeware is funded by advertisements that appear every time you use it and other freeware may be questionable in terms of its legality and security features.

 

Why is this an issue?

All software should be assumed to contain errors, many of which are not known to the designers or vendors. Some software may also contain malware by design and the designers have no liability (End User License Agreements make this clear). Such malware may allow others to steal data from your computer or use it as a Zombie in a botnet used to disseminate spam or launch coordinated cyber-attacks without your knowledge, let alone consent.

 

When it comes to apps for smartphones and tablets, it may be worth noting that starting in 2014, the Dutch government is planning to monitor apps that allow individuals to self-diagnose medical conditions. It appears that there are hundreds such applications of unknown origin and quality.

 

What you should do about it

The prudent choice is to only install software that has some form of Quality Assurance and this implies a reputable vendor. The Quality Assurance process is reflected in the price of the software. Reputable vendors also provide support for their products in the form of updates and support (online, by e-mail or phone).

 

Software downloads have become very popular as illustrated by the number of Apps available for smartphones and tablets – in January 2013 there were a reported 780,000 for iOS and 800,000 for Android and the numbers are growing. When it comes to free or really cheap or free software, remember the old adage that “There Is No Such Thing As A Free Lunch”. Quality Assurance and support may not be available. None of them has a real warranty.