Don’t Just Click ‘Next’: How Taking 30 Seconds During an Application Installation Can Save You Hours Of Frustration Later!

We’ve all done it. IT and non IT alike. Some known application is bugging you to update it such as Java, Adobe Flash Player, Yahoo Messenger, etc. In a haste, you allow the update to run, clicking next all the way through. Within the next few days, you’re noticing your PC is running slow. Your internet browser homepage is now some site you’ve never heard of, and 3-4 different anti-virus applications are now on your PC. If you’re not careful and don’t take the time to look at the ‘extras’ that the software is trying to install, you’re sure to create new issues on the computer.

Let’s take a look at Java as an example:
Java usually prompts the user that there’s an update from the taskbar of the PC.

When you click the prompt a window will pop up prompting you to update Java. This Java update also includes an install for the Ask.com Toolbar! No thank you!

Rather than just clicking ‘Next’ – the user should chose to uncheck the installation of the Ask Toolbar. Setting Ask.com as the default search provider as well as setting Ask.com as the browser homepage should also be unchecked. If these options are not unchecked, the web browser will now have the Ask.com toolbar, homepage and default search provider all set to Ask.com.

With the Ask toolbar installed and the configuration changes made to your browser, you will almost immediately notice that your browsing experience slows down and generates more ads than ever before. This leads to potential malware, slower PC’s and calls to your IT department for help. In the end, productivity will be lost due to a slower computer. The good news is that this can easily be avoided by taking the time to uncheck the add-on toolbars and browser changes in the first place! Additionally, assuming you don’t have a managed services plan, let’s not forget the cost associated with contacting your IT company for help removing the bloatware that is now slowing down your computer.

While you do need to be careful when updating programs on your computer, Right Click Computer Solutions would like to emphasize the importance of keeping your applications up to date. Software companies don’t release updates to their programs for their health. There is usually good reason for the update, such as patching a security vulnerability that could leave your computer and personal information exposed to the wrong people.

As always, you can always contact RCCS if you have any questions about an application you’d like to install on your workstation or server. Our staff will be sure to offer you the best advice on how to proceed.