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Belarc Advisor analyzes software, hardware, and OS components, as well as security configurations, and can tell you exactly where the problems are, if any, on your computer. The program was easy to install and does not come bundled with any additional software.
Upon installation, Belarc Advisor immediately checks for updates and asks your permission to download them. It then informs you that it needs administrator access to your computer in order to provide a comprehensive profile of the system. Scanning your computer takes only a minute or two. The program uses your browser to present information and does not allow the information to go out over a server. It actually gives you information that your computer can easily give you but then takes it a few steps further by listing each component in your computer, the model numbers, serial numbers, and status of each piece of hardware. It then lists network information, missing security updates, and every piece of software installed. It gives advice on which software may no longer be useful based on how often you use it. The best feature is the program's list of software license numbers. The presentation of data is intuitive and easy to follow.
Belarc Advisor is a delight to use, especially for expert users who want to know every detail about their computer. Novice users may find the sheer amount of information daunting, but if they need work done on their computer or wish to upgrade, the information provided by this program is not just desirable, but necessary.
Belarc Advisor:Publisher's Description
From Belarc:
Belarc Advisor builds a detailed profile of your installed software and hardware, including Microsoft Hotfixes and software serial numbers, and shows the results in your Web browser. All of your PC profile information is kept private on your PC and is not sent to any Web server.
What's new in this version:
Now with improved reporting of installed software and discovery of product keys for Adobe Acrobat 11 and other recently released applications.
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All versions:
4.5 starsout of 724 votes
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Current version:
4.0 starsout of 3 votes
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My rating:
Write review
Results 1-3 of 3
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"Lots of good info"
Version: Belarc Advisor 8.3b
Pros
Free, thorough, used it to remember which copy of Windows XP was installed on which of my computer.
Cons
None that I can think of right now.
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"A useful tool."
Version: Belarc Advisor 8.3b
Pros
Provides a comprehensive breakdown of system information and potential problem areas. Designed for the moderate to advanced PC user; novices may have trouble handling some of the diagnostic data.
Cons
Too many adds in analysis repor.
Summary
It's free and useful.
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"What began as a resource is becoming commercialized."
Version: Belarc Advisor 8.3b
Pros
Comprehensive snapshot of your entire computer, including what you OUGHT to have but don't, and what is activated and not but should be. Provides quantitative score for various categories like security. Self-updating.
Cons
Like so many other programs that began purely as a solid resource for consumers/users, IMO, Belarc is becoming a commercial enterprise, offering to sell you what you need for your pc or your business operation. Don't have XYZ coverage? Hmmm down goes your score, and a red mark stuck next to it. NOBODY wants a low score in ANYTHING, or a nasty looking red mark!
Summary
To my limited knowledge, nothing evaluates one's computer like Belarc does, and does it so thoroughly. I'm willing to overlook the offer to buy, buy, buy in favor of a comprehensive view of my computer. I'll evaluate the efficacy of what I need to bolster my score, thank you! It does point out potential security weaknesses, and need to update drivers, if you can get past the commercialization. A good, free, program.
Results 1-3 of 3
