Just When Are Things Really Shut Down?
Sat, 12/22/2007 - 15:14 — StarShadow
I often notice that when uploading software, the program developer suggests that all applications should be shut down prior to beginning the process. But just how "far down" must someone go before they're truly considered shut down all the way?
I mean, I'm sure this process would include turning off all major applications. Yet I've a number of items on hand for which I've no idea of how to shut down. I know how to turn off my anti-virus program, yet haven't ever noticed any way to shut down my anti-spyware routines. I also use a fingerprint scanner, which eases the burden of logging-in to my various online accounts. Like the anti-spyware program, this one also seems to lack an "off switch" of any kind ... at least so far as I can tell, and I have looked around aplenty.
Sooooo ... when a software developer recommends that the user shut down all applications prior to uploading their proffered wares, does that really mean everything everywhere must absolutely be turned off ... or do they simply mean the "big stuff" ... like a word processor, videogames, or a slideshow-making program ... just for a few examples?
This work is licensed under a Creative Commons Attribution-Noncommercial 3.0 License.
Microsoft, Windows and the Windows logo are either registered trademarks or trademarks of Microsoft Corporation in the United States and/or other countries. Microsoft Corporation in no way endorses or is affiliated with www.vista4beginners.com.
All other products mentioned are registered trademarks and/or trademarks of their respective companies.
My opinion
I guess the answer depends on the application you are trying to install.
If you install an application that will modify the operating system in important ways (such as a driver for your graphics card or a firewall), it would be good idea to turn off absolutely all the applications that are running (including the anti-spyware protection).
If you install a "normal" application like a game, word processor, etc, then turning off most applications should be enough. I those cases it should be OK too keep the antivirus running, for example.
As a general piece of advice: before installing a new application try to limit the number of running programs as much as possible. That will keep you out of unnecessary trouble.
Hmmmmm ... well, the latest
Hmmmmm ... well, the latest such upload I'm being offered is from Sony itself {they have their own ways of keeping watch on certain computers they've designed, with update notifications apearing now and then, just as Microsoft does with Windows}. I guess I'd better try asking them. Thing is, it'll likely take ages before I receive any response.
But this update involves nothing more than correcting some processor-related information shown on the Device Manager page. At least I won't loose sleep at night waiting for their answer, as might be the case if an important security matter were involved.
Thank you.
Post new comment