Once upon a time, I don't use any of Windows default software...

[pcunite]

Notepad++, ClassicShell, and FileSearchEX for me!!!

 

[coffeejunkee]

I mostly agree with your list but it's only logical. Windows comes with a few basic tools built in but if you want something better you can (and should) install it yourself.

I don't agree with one thing though and that's the firewall. Windows built-in firewall is the only firewall that is active right after booting up. Other firewalls need to start up first leaving a small window of potential insecurity. You just need to familiarize yourself with the advanced setup to configure it properly.

 

[Morbus]

I don't agree with one thing though and that's the firewall. Windows built-in firewall is the only firewall that is active right after booting up. Other firewalls need to start up first leaving a small window of potential insecurity. You just need to familiarize yourself with the advanced setup to configure it properly.

First off, that difference, while possibly important, isn't relevant for me. I make sure my system isn't compromised, so it doesn't matter if the Firewall starts 2 seconds after Windows Firewall would. It will start before everything else anyway.

Also, I have never heard of an unpatched security exploit that targets that window before the firewall starts... So I'm not sure it's even a valid concern.

 

[zephxiii]

I used to use Firefox but it annoyed the crap out of me with sluggish performance and annoying updates. Now i primarily use Chrome.

MPC-HC is by far my preferred player!

 

[coffeejunkee]

First off, that difference, while possibly important, isn't relevant for me. I make sure my system isn't compromised, so it doesn't matter if the Firewall starts 2 seconds after Windows Firewall would. It will start before everything else anyway.

Also, I have never heard of an unpatched security exploit that targets that window before the firewall starts... So I'm not sure it's even a valid concern.

I'm not a security expert so I'm just rehashing what I heard one of them say. It is however an undeniable advantage that no other firewall offers, even if it's mostly irrelevant.

My point was more that you shouldn't judge the Windows firewall by the limited control options the standard interface offers. The advanced interface is actually very powerful although not very intuitive for average users.