- Quick specs
- Price: Free $29.95 to buy
- Operating system: Windows 2003, Windows Vista, Windows Me, Windows NT, Windows 2000, Windows XP, Windows 98
- Date added: March 15, 2009
- Total Downloads: 1,398,909
- Downloads last week: 1,066
- 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 459 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 :The power of multiple programs without the bloat of a security suite. Clean up your Taskbar, ActiveX, Brower 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. Version 16.0.2009 better identified malware.
What's new in this version:
Monitor changes to Windows User Account Control settings. Windows 7 compatibility Single list of recent files and settings to better identify new malware infections. Lock system changes by hiding alerts and logging changes
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User reviews of WinPatrol 16.0.2009
- Average user rating: 4.5 stars out of 459 votes
- My rating: 0 stars Write review
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Showing 4 of 4 user reviewsSee all 4 user reviews
This software version | All versions -
Version: WinPatrol 16.0.2009
"Don't know it's working, 'till it tells you."
Pros: Free version, download it and forget it easy to use, more information than I need.
Cons: When it "barks" my wife wants to know what I'm doing.
Summary: For a bonehead like me it's comforting to know when I do put something new on my computer there is a safety net. Lots of software tries to get you to add a toolbar or something else that runs whenever you start you computer. This little dog tells ... read more >>
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Version: WinPatrol 16.0.2009
"cleaned up ad/spy/free WARES on my compute-i'm happy!"
Pros: free; easy to use
Cons: still have ONE adware on computer via FIREFOX haven't figured out to remove...may need Xtra steps that wp1602009 doesn't detail
Summary: if you got POPups - this is perfect for you!
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Version: WinPatrol 16.0.2009
"Great program to keep you safe"
Pros: This is an easy to use and understand program. Monitors your system activities without being obtrusive. I have used this for years.
Cons: None that I have found.
Summary: Give the free version a try and I'm sure you will find the upgrade well worth the few dollars.
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Version: WinPatrol 16.0.2009
Pros: simple to use
Cons: none as yet.
Summary: everyone should have a program like this on there machine.
- See all 4 user reviews Write review
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