- Quick specs
- Price: Free to try (Limited access to PLUS database); $29.95 to buy
- Operating system: Windows Vista, Windows 95, Windows Me, Windows XP, Windows 2000, Windows NT, Windows 98
- Date added: October 13, 2008
- Total Downloads: 1,432,280
- Downloads last week: 1,288
- See full specifications
A newer version of WinPatrol is available.
(Download doesn't provide access to previous versions of this program.)
- CNET editors' rating: stars
- Average user rating: stars out of 460 votes
See all user reviews
CNET editors' review
Reviewed by: CNET Staff
This program uses a simple yet effective method of fighting all kinds of malicious programs. It inspects several Windows system spots that malware is most likely to alter, including programs launched at start-up, browser helper objects, scheduled tasks, services, and cookies.
The latest version includes two new logs: one emulates the popular HijackThis log style, while the other is a CSV-exportable format. There are also more tweaks for Vista users, as well as the usual bug fixing. The app consumes few resources, doesn't slow your PC, and is highly customizable. You can set the interval between checkups; the default is every three minutes. If something new installs on your PC, the program notifies you and asks whether you want the newcomer. This won't cure serious infections, but it will save you from annoying adware and malicious sites that hijack your browser's home page. You can view full reports in HTML format, and the app even lets you manage which programs launch on system start-up, including a "delayed" start-up.
Improved cookie handling is taken care of by Pinky the Squirrel, who eats "cookies with nuts"--that is, cookies that contain user-defined nuggets of text, such as ads. Users who install a lot of new software will find the program invaluable.
Publisher's description
From BillP Studios :Clean up your Taskbar, ActiveX and Startup programs. WinPatrol monitors and exposes adware, keyloggers, spyware, worms, cookies, and other malicious software. This program puts you back in control of your computer with no need for constant updates. WinPatrol's goal is to help you better understand what programs are running on your computer and to alert you to any new programs added without your permission. Unlike traditional security programs, WinPatrol doesn't scan your hard drive searching for previously identified threats. Instead, it uses a heuristic behavioral approach, taking a snapshot of your critical system resources, then alerting you to any changes that occur without your knowledge. New versions alert users to new ActiveX installations and provides a way to disable existing ActiveX controls when vulnerabilities are discovered. Version 15.9.2008.5 added user option to allow or remove Windows Explorer Integration.
What's new in this version:
Version 15.9.2008.5 added user option to allow or remove Windows Explorer Integration.
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User reviews of WinPatrol 15.9.2008.5
- Average user rating: 4.5 stars out of 460 votes
- My rating: 0 stars Write review
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Showing 5 of 18 user reviewsSee all 18 user reviews
This software version | All versions -
Version: WinPatrol 15.9.2008.5
Pros: lets you see what start up programmes are running so you can stop what you want to
Cons: none that i can see
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Version: WinPatrol 15.9.2008.5
Pros: Is a great program
Cons: HAS TO KEEP UP WITH THE TIMES .. WHAT I MEAN IS THAT IT ONLY CONTROLS IE COOKIES AND NOT FIREFOX ..
Summary: MUST UPDATE THIS GREAT PROGRAM FOR FIREFOX ... HAVE BEEN USING FOR YEARS AND EVEN THOUGH IT DOES NOT CONTROL COOKIES IN FIREFOX .. DOES SO MUCH MORE !
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1 out of 1 people found this review helpful
Version: WinPatrol 15.9.2008.5
"Excellent for the Noob ort the Pro"
Pros: Makes sorting out startup programmes a lot easier than 'msconfig' and offers the option of timed startup delays - very handy on Vista where a programme halted by UAC gets a chance to ask permission (e.g. Peer Guardian).
Cons: None I can think of. If your sound is turned up, the sudden 'woof' from Scotty when it sees something wrong or needing attention could be injurious to the health of those of a nervous disposition or prone to heart problems ! You CAN turn this off !
Summary: Used this for years in the pro (donated for) version. Makes many tasks simple for the noob or the pro. Gives info on running processes, hidden files, etc., and in the pro version gives full info on files you do not recopgnise by just clicking on 'mo... read more >>
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Version: WinPatrol 15.9.2008.5
Pros: is great forr web users - to keep unwanted prgrams on you PC
Cons: you must buy the one time fee to get any real information
Summary: overall it is a must for web users
is great to keep unwanted prgrams off your comuter. sorry for the mix -up
Updated on Feb 17, 2009 -
Version: WinPatrol 15.9.2008.5
Pros: Excellent settings change detection
Low RAM & CPU usage
No ads
Compatible with every other security software
Will always prevent changes to the system... before they happen.Cons: Interface could use some refining
PRO is too expensive and there is little incentive to get it.Summary: Excellent program and completely worth the little RAM and CPU resources it'll use.
- See all 18 user reviews Write review
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