How to Evaluate Software Before Installing It
Prefer the publisher’s official website or a reputable distribution channel. Be cautious with unfamiliar mirrors and unexpected download pages.
Prefer the publisher’s official website or a reputable distribution channel. Be cautious with unfamiliar mirrors and unexpected download pages.
Check requirements
Review operating-system support, hardware requirements, dependencies and file-format compatibility.
Review operating-system support, hardware requirements, dependencies and file-format compatibility.
Understand what the software installs and what permissions it requests. Read current documentation and privacy information where available.
Review permissions and documentation
Confirm how updates are delivered and whether the publisher provides release notes or security information.
Understand what the software installs and what permissions it requests. Read current documentation and privacy information where available.
Plan updates
Confirm how updates are delivered and whether the publisher provides release notes or security information.
Editorial note: This guide is general information. Software features, licensing, pricing, compatibility and security practices can change, so verify current details with the relevant publisher or project.