Home
>
Software
>
Software Upgrades Arent Always the Best Move

Software Upgrades Arent Always the Best Move

When my daughter was getting into AOL instant messaging (AIM) and using all the cool add-ons, I looked for more as it's a great way to learn about extending applications. While doing research, I learned that if you wanted to use AIM themes, you don't want to upgrade to AIM 5.9. A post at MyThemes suggests sticking with or downgrading to 5.5. MyTheme shows what steps to take, should you prefer to stick with 5.9. The post also shows where to download 5.5 and how to downgrade back to it. Furthermore, 5.9 was bloated. Think it took a while for AIM to completely load in 5.5? 5.9 is worse.

Many people, Hubby included, didn't upgrade WinAmp past version 2.8 because he didn't like version 3.0's playlist and it kept crashing. Then, he got a pop up that an upgrade was available. He figured he'd try it as it couldn't hurt and he still had 2.81's install. He liked the new interface and themes on version 5.0, so he stuck with it. That's three versions later.

When I got my new computer, I stayed with Microsoft Office 2002 / OfficeXP. The new features weren't worth it and I'm happy with this version. As long as I have my word count, tracking, and comments -- the other stuff doesn't matter as much. New software products tend to have more bloat than usefulness. This does not apply to ALL new software, just a general statement that it's often the case.

I usually skip a version or two before considering an upgrade unless I see a feature that I think would prove valuable. When it comes to operating systems, I wait till the new one has been out for a long time before considering it.

When I finally got around to buying accounting software in 2003, I researched to see what would best meet my needs. Many users pointed to the older versions of QuickBooks. I currently use QuickBooks Pro 2000. Although, I miss some of the more modern features and functionality, it has all I need. In a quick search, I couldn't find the sites that talk about the versions and their advantages / disadvantages. I had to buy my copy from eBay.

If you find an upgrade awful and uninstalled the old version that you want back, just hop to OldVersion.com -- can't forget a name like that. But if it doesn't have your software, use Google and enter the software title along with the version number. It always works for me.

meryl k. evans is the Content Maven behind meryl k. evans, meryl k. evans. She is also a PC Today columnist and a tour guide at InformIT. She is geared to tackle your editing, writing, content, and process needs. The native Texan resides in Plano, Texas, a heartbeat north of Dallas, and doesn't wear a 10-gallon hat or cowboy boots.

Batchtown Chicago prom limo .. Lockport Chicago limo O’Hare

In The News:

A virtual private network can help ensure your information remains security and your privacy remains intact. Kurt the CyberGuy explains.

Stay up to date on the latest AI technology advancements and learn about the challenges and opportunities AI presents now and for the future.

Artificial intelligence-based cameras are giving air defense operators unprecedented capabilities in monitoring and protecting airspace.

Apple's iOS 18.1 Inactivity Reboot automatically reboots your iPhone if it hasn't been used or unlocked for more than three days, providing better data protection.

An inventor designed rooftop solar panels for a Tesla that draws solar energy while the car is parked, adding travel mileage without plugging in.

There are currently no laws governing what artificial intelligence can and cannot do with the information it gathers; here are 10 things to avoid telling AI chatbots to keep yourself safe.

A credit union with over 240,000 members recently revealed it was targeted by cybercriminals, resulting in a data breach that was part of a two-month attack by hackers.

Scammers have become skilled at creating convincing fake websites that can easily fool unsuspecting users. The CyberGuy offers tips to protect yourself.

Stay up to date on the latest AI technology advancements and learn about the challenges and opportunities AI presents now and for the future.

CAPTCHAs, which are used by websites to confirm whether users are people or bots, are harmless, but hackers are using them to infect PCs with malware.

Hackers recently leaked personal information of about 500,000 Americans and stole patient medical records that included lab results and insurance details.

The holiday season sees a rise in mobile shopping scams. Tech expert Kurt “CyberGuy" Knutsson helps you learn how to stay safe.

Tech expert Kurt “CyberGuy" Knutsson says a VPN enhances online banking security by encrypting data and protecting privacy.

Beware of these six sneaky holiday scams. Tech expert Kurt “CyberGuy" Knutsson gives you tips to avoid falling victim.

Tech expert Kurt “CyberGuy" Knutsson reveals how to securely back up and factory reset your Android to protect your privacy and data.

Artificial intelligence is making life easier for cybercriminals, allowing them to create elaborate scams to trick people. Kurt the Cyberguy explains how to protect yourself.

Cut through all the digital clutter and delete multiple emails from your Android simultaneously. Kurt the CyberGuy explains how it's done.

Tips to prevent your holiday decorations from being stolen

Stay up to date on the latest AI technology advancements and learn about the challenges and opportunities AI presents now and for the future.

Kurt "CyberGuy" Knutsson lays out the immediate steps you should take if your phone has been hacked and your personal information becomes vulnerable.

Fraudsters are sending people bogus invoices through PayPal as part of a sneaky scam that is going around; here's how to protect yourself from being fooled.

A former Colgate-Palmolive employee was shocked to discover $750,000 had been drained from her 401(k) account. "CyberGuy" offers tips on how to prevent identity theft.

Electric vehicle maker Harbinger recently showed its electric delivery truck can handle icy roads with agility and stability in winter.

To make the busiest time of year more manageable, here are some tricks for tracking your packages, taking quality family photos and curating the perfect Christmas playlist.

Kurt "CyberGuy" Knutsson explains how to keep your online Amazon gift purchases a secret from loved ones or friends this holiday season.