Recommended Posts

And what if you have an application that doesn't have an auto-updater function in it or the updating is broken in the application itself?

The lack of a "package management" is one of the many things that originally turned me away from Windows and people still resist it? Do not understand.

Any software that I use a lot self updates or warns me of updates, less important software gets updated if and when I need to use it or if I have some extra time to care, yes package management a la Linux would be great, but it's not that big a deal in the long run

How does this compare to "FileHippo.com Update Checker"?

From what I've just seen from watching a youtube video of filehippo, is it will check all your programs and then take you to the filehippo website with a list of all the applications it found updates for. It then looks like you have to manually download each application. WIth Patch My PC it scans your computer and also gives you a list of the out of date applications.

But the difference is, when you click run it automatically with no user interaction goes down the list and updates every application in that list. Meaning a tech could run this on a PC on his work bench. Patch my PC would then say the computer has say, 7 out of date application. The tech would click go and walk away, or work on other machines. When he returns the computer is up todate.

Yeah, I'd trust this as much as I trust the auto driver update programs, not at all. It's windows update or manual/programs own updater. Only way to go.

What is untrustworthy about driver update program's is that drivers rarely need to be updated, unless there is a specific problem with the hardware, to suggest that all your PC problems can be solved by updating drivers sounds like bull**** and I would not trust software that make these false claims.

The promise for this software is more practical because not much software is automatically updated, and Java is a royal pain to get users to update because it is a manual process they don't understand.

Flash now has auto update in 11.2 so doing one last manual update of flash is worth it at least.

So with PatchMyPC, Ninite, Secunia and FileHippo do these automatically update software (like Java in particular) or just give a centralised interface to update everything at once.

Also Malwarebytes PRO could do with some improvement to their update process. Definition updates automatically update fine, but as soon as a Program update comes, definition update stop working completely until the user installs the Program update. Not good when many technicians install it to keep illterate users protected, and impossible for a user to update it if running in conjunction with a Limited user Account.

Also I have tried AllMyApps.com but it requires registration (too tedious to roll out to users) and I don't think it even updates that automatically.

Agree, It's not that bad, still prefer Filehippo's Update Checker (http://www.filehippo.com/updatechecker/) over it, but won't discourage use of this one.

  • Like 2

How does this compare to "FileHippo.com Update Checker"?

A short video I made demonstrating the differences

I know on the filehippo website you can tell it to only show nonbeta versions, but this was just to show you what happens when it finds an updated app in general.

Patch My PC 2.1.1.1 | Definitions - 5.8.2012 | Started At 8:19:47 AM

Operating System: Microsoft Windows 7 Ultimate x64

COMMON UPDATE PROCESS

Downloading CCleaner 3 MB

CCleaner downloaded successfully

Installing CCleaner

CCleaner installed successfully

OPTIONAL SOFTWARE PROGRESS

Downloading uTorrent 1 MB

uTorrent downloaded successfully

Installing uTorrent

Install Complete

PATCH MY PC UPDATE COMPLETE AT 8:19:52 AM

seems good to me since i like to be updated...

YAY! I sent a link of the video i made about Patch My PC to the developer. told him he could use it if he wants. It's now the official "how to use" video under "About" on the patch my pc website.

http://patchmypc.net/about.html

  • Like 2

I've been using FileHippo's Checker, but I'll give this a try. (checking only, I despise auto-installs, I need to see change logs and stuff like that before an update). Great find.

Well if you aren't going to use it to auto update your applications, then I would continue to use filehippo's checker. It probably has a bigger list of application. The Only reason I use patchmypc is for the auto install.

The /auto switch - This switch will allow the current logged user to see the Patch My PC GUI. The update process will started automatically. If browsers are open Patch My PC will notify user in the log textbox browsers need to be closed before updates can continue.

The /s switch - This switch will run Patch My PC in hidden in the background. If browsers are open it will recheck every ten seconds until browsers are closed then continue with the install.

The /update switch - This switch will run Windows updates automatically after third party updates. This can be used with the /auto or /s switch.

The /applyallcommon switch - This switch will install all the programs in the common list that aren't installed unless the program is marked as skipped.

Examples:

PatchMyPC.exe /s (Will run any needed common updates automatically with no graphical interface).

PatchMyPC.exe /auto (Will run any needed common updates automatically with a graphical interface).

PatchMyPC.exe /update (Will automatically run windows updates with graphical interface).

PatchMyPC.exe /s /update (Will run any needed common updates and then run Windows updates automatically with no graphical interface).

PatchMyPC.exe /auto /update(Will run any needed common updates and then run Windows updates automatically with a graphical interface).

http://patchmypc.net/forum/index.php?topic=16.0

What is untrustworthy about driver update program's is that drivers rarely need to be updated, unless there is a specific problem with the hardware, to suggest that all your PC problems can be solved by updating drivers sounds like bull**** and I would not trust software that make these false claims.

+1

Drivers are kinda like BIOS updates - dont fix it if it aint broke.

I think most of those driver update apps cause more problems than they solve.

Can be real dangerous like those "registry repair" apps

I use filehippo all the time, I use the update checker occasionally, but uninstall the utility as soon as I run it (I dont like clutter)

filehippo is a great website - always fast and has a ton of stuff - usually has releases before the manufacturer posts them.

Looks interesting.

I used to use Ninite to install/update programs on fresh reinstalled bench pc's & worked well but came across a problem that the programs would not auto update (they may have fixed it now).

I need to check this one, see if the software updated is then reliant upon patchmypc for further updates.

Looks interesting.

I used to use Ninite to install/update programs on fresh reinstalled bench pc's & worked well but came across a problem that the programs would not auto update (they may have fixed it now).

I need to check this one, see if the software updated is then reliant upon patchmypc for further updates.

+1

Drivers are kinda like BIOS updates - dont fix it if it aint broke.

I think most of those driver update apps cause more problems than they solve.

Can be real dangerous like those "registry repair" apps

I use filehippo all the time, I use the update checker occasionally, but uninstall the utility as soon as I run it (I dont like clutter)

filehippo is a great website - always fast and has a ton of stuff - usually has releases before the manufacturer posts them.

the main problem, besides not knowing what broken updates these apps download for your drivers and/or apps, is that, while it's a nice clean app now. you can bet your ass that 6 months down the line when it's got a few more users and a bit of a repuation. This app will be riddle with a toolbar or that horrible Uni-blue registry cleaner/booster, or one of it's cousins, that not only do nothign to improve your computer, but almost always ends up breaking them. and you can bet this will be included in one of the automatic updates around that time as well...

it always happens. these apps are like a delivery method for these crappy things. and the users come in to the workshop saying "no I didn't download that".

This topic is now closed to further replies.
  • Posts

    • Subscription upon subscription... That old Xzibit Pimp my ride meme comes to mind
    • EA reached out to our reporter that mainly does gaming content and reviewed loads of other games, why would this be shocking to anyone? I admit maybe we were considered this time around because of the extra coverage UFC was getting and they wanted a broader audience for this release? IDK. I can tell you that we aren't paid to do the reviews, the fun part of it is (mostly) being able to keep what we review and giving an honest opinion on what we're reviewing.
    • Save over $430 on Sterling Stock Picker (lifetime subscription) by Steven Parker Today's highlighted Neowin deal comes via our Apps + Software section of the Neowin Deals store, where you can save 88% off on a lifetime subscription to Sterling Stock Picker. Sterling Stock Picker (SSP) is an award-winning platform designed to make stock investing accessible to everyone, regardless of expertise. The software offers multiple methods to identify winning stocks that align with your personal values, investment preferences, and risk tolerance. By handling all the complex calculations, it allows you to focus on making informed investment decisions. The patent-pending North Star technology provides clear guidance on whether to buy, sell, hold, or avoid a particular stock. Ask Finley, your personal AI financial coach Finley is your personal AI financial coach providing real-time data access, strategic investment advice, risk assessment, and educational support to help you make informed decisions. Whether you're a seasoned investor or just starting, Finley is equipped to help you achieve your financial goals. Feel free to ask any questions about your portfolio or the stock market. PERSONALIZED FINANCIAL GUIDANCE Custom Recommendations: Get stock picks tailored to your risk tolerance, portfolio performance, and investment goals. Dynamic Insights: Access detailed financial, technical, earnings, growth, and risk analysis for smarter investing. ENHANCED PORTFOLIO MANAGEMENT Done-For-You Portfolio Builder: Easily construct a diversified portfolio based on your risk tolerance and investment goals. Analysis and Suggestions: Receive data-driven portfolio adjustments to optimize returns based on your risk acceptance score. Risk Assessment Overview: Understand your risk level and receive stock recommendations aligned with your investment strategy. STRATEGIC INVESTMENT ADVICE Stock Rockets: Discover top-performing companies with over 50% quarterly revenue growth and the highest North Star rankings. Concentrated Portfolio Strategy: Focus on high-potential stocks instead of broad diversification to maximize growth. Industry and Sector Insights: Stay ahead with detailed performance narratives and sector-specific trends. EDUCATIONAL SUPPORT & COMMUNITY Verbose Explanations: Break down complex financial concepts with in-depth explanations for beginners. Investment Strategies: Learn and apply various investment strategies with expert-backed insights. Community Chat Forum: Connect with fellow investors to share insights, ask questions, and discuss investment strategies. Build your Stock Portfolio in 3 easy steps! Discover Your Risk Tolerance: Take a quick 5-minute questionnaire to assess your ability to handle risk effortlessly. Search Stocks Aligned With Your Personal Values: Use an intuitive stock-picking interface to confidently find winning stocks. Build Your Portfolio: Utilize the Done-For-You Portfolio Builder to simplify investing and remove the guesswork. Good to know: Length of access: lifetime Redemption deadline: redeem your code within 30 days of purchase Access options: desktop or mobile Only available to new users Updates included A lifetime subscription to Sterling Stock Picker normally has a suggested price of $486, but you can pick it up for just $54.90 for a limited time - that represents a saving of $431.10 (88% off). For a full description, specs, and license info, click the link below. Sterling Stock Picker lifetime subscription for $54.90 (was $486) Although priced in U.S. dollars, this deal is available for digital purchase worldwide. Support queries If you have queries or need support for any of the Neowin Deals, please use the contact form here. Neowin Deals are managed and sold by StackCommerce who represent Neowin on an affiliate basis. Why we post these deals We post these because we earn commission on each sale so as not to rely solely on advertising, which many of our readers block. It all helps toward paying staff reporters, servers and hosting costs. So for those that keep moaning and complaining, be thankful we're still online for you to even do that. Other ways to support Neowin Whitelist Neowin by not blocking our ads Create a free member account to see fewer ads Make a donation to support our day to day running costs Subscribe to Neowin - for $14 a year, or $28 a year for an ad-free experience Disclosure: Neowin benefits from revenue of each sale made through our branded deals site powered by StackCommerce.
  • Recent Achievements

    • Week One Done
      Classifyskilleducation earned a badge
      Week One Done
    • One Month Later
      eurospharma62 earned a badge
      One Month Later
    • Week One Done
      With What earned a badge
      Week One Done
    • Week One Done
      Harris Gilbert earned a badge
      Week One Done
    • One Month Later
      Vincian earned a badge
      One Month Later
  • Popular Contributors

    1. 1
      +primortal
      545
    2. 2
      +Edouard
      172
    3. 3
      PsYcHoKiLLa
      82
    4. 4
      ATLien_0
      64
    5. 5
      neufuse
      64
  • Tell a friend

    Love Neowin? Tell a friend!