Is there a review site that is available to average computer users to get comprehensive and reliable advice on software?
CNET Reviews
Yes! Try CNET Reviews. CNET is a highly respected organization that provides unbiased reviews based on tests performed in their labs, user input, and hands-on use. They review thousands of products including computers, hardware, software, monitors, computer devices and printers, laptops, digital cameras, DVD players, TVs, and more. Go to the CNET Web site and click on Reviews and then choose the relevant category from the list. From there, you’ll be able to read detailed reviews by CNET editors and users, view video reviews, read articles, see graphical ratings, and get an overview of the products features and price range.
You can also compare products to similar offerings which is nice when several editions are offered or many products from different vendors have been reviewed.
CNET Downloads
The Downloads section of CNET is also a useful area for computer users. Here you can search for specific types of computer programs and see numerous offerings ranging from free programs to commercial editions. You’ll find reviews and be able to download the applications with confidence that you are using a respected download site that doesn’t discriminately post programs. In fact, CNET tests all downloads for spyware before they offer them on their site.
Softpedia
Another good site is Softpedia.com. This site features reviews, articles, ratings, and downloads. You’ll often see the “100% Clean: No Spyware, No Adware, No Viruses - Certified by Softpedia” graphic on web sites that have earned this certification for their products. This is a respected certification that verifies a product has passed Softpedia’s testing process. However, it’s always smart to double check the Softpedia.com Web site to make sure that the product has in fact passed the tests. After all, developers of malicious software have been known to copy and paste logos from legitimate sources.
Tucows
Tucows is one of the original software download sites and is a huge resource for users of all abilities. You’ll find software reviews as well as tools, videos, and downloads. Like Softpedia and CNET, Tucows ratings are highly sought after by software vendors. On a related note, Tucows has launched Butterscotch.com which uses a similar approach only in video form.
West Coast Labs
Another resource is West Coast Labs. This organization is an independent testing facility that certifies information security products and services. You can look up different security products such as anti-virus or anti-spyware programs and view their test results and certification status.
Each of the above mentioned Web sites should provide you with a wealth of resources when researching software products. In addition, Filetonic.com is growing and we occasionally review products. For example, we recently reviewed about 20 antivirus applications for 2009 as well as online backup programs.
