Editorial Review

Nobody wants to expect the worst, but in today's digital world, you must keep your computer and your digital files protected at all times. Recipient of the PC World's "Best Buy" award (June 2005), Norton Systemworks 2006 offers some of the industry's most comprehensive solutions that are designed not only to keep viruses and hackers from reaching your files, but that will also keep your computer running smoothly and efficiently.Read more

Features

• Multi-purpose solution keeps computer healthy and personal info safe
• Antivirus protection guards against dangerous viruses and spyware
• Scans email and IM attachments for virus threats
• Automatically downloads updates to protect against new threats
• Restores computer to pre-crash state after system failures

Reviews (96)

Norton Systemworks 2006 DOESN'T work in my system
I hate to criticize any product, especially I have been using Norton anti-virus for years. However, Norton Systemworks, interestingly, unlike its name--It doesn't work for me. It slows me down and need to reboot n times to install it and it was getting slower and slower in each reboot. So, I decided to uninstall it and I need to roboot, reboot, and reboot. After my uninstalling of SW2006, it also took out the antivirus that I already have in my computer. So I need to uninstall my Norton Internet security 2005 then installed it back. Totally hours spent: 8 hours. I installed System Machinic 6 afterwards, it is a way better utility. I am retuning Systemworks back to Norton, thank God that there is a 60 days money-back guarantee. But even there wasn't, I would have done the same to uninstall it and keep it away from my system.
Long-time User Ready to Ditch SystemWorks 2006
I have been purchasing Norton Systemworks for 4 PCs at home for about 8 years. When I installed an update to 2006, it installed OK and worked for about 6 months. Then, during a LiveUpdate session, the LiveUpdate software sat there trying to make a connection and never completed. In subsequent LiveUpdate attempts, the software reports that I can't launch Update because it is already running. I've used their "support" articles, and killed the various processes and relaunched LiveUpdate, but then it just hangs and never makes a connection. When I used their online support, I got a lot of really stupid, time-consuming suggestions such as deleting my DSL connection, turning off my firewall, numerous re-boots, installing an updated LiveUpdate application. One support rep "hung up" on the chat in the middle, and only one out of three support rep's have emailed the chat log I've requested each time. I've used XP's "Remove Software" to uninstall all listed Norton products as well as LiveUpdate, followed by a full reinstall. After the reinstalls, LiveUpdate ran successfully ONCE to update all the out-of-date files, but the next time LiveUpdate attempted to run, it could not make a connection. Same problem. Another "support" chat, who suggested I uninstall and reinstall everything, AGAIN. There are no support articles for the 2006 Systemworks for performing a full removal/uninstall. I specifically asked the support tech for information on registry entries I should check or delete, or other instructions to ensure a full/total removal prior to attempting one more uninstall/reinstall cycle. The support tech said he would email me info and a copy of the chat log, which have never arrived. I have built PCs, diagnosed & repaired numerous software & hardware problems over the years, and direct a corporate IT department. At this point, it really appears that Norton Systemworks has a repeating error, and their support has been useless in helping resolve. I have other things to do with my life than spend multiple days and nights trying to troubleshoot Norton's bloated, underperforming Systemworks software. I still like the Utilities provided in the application; unfortunately Symantec made the decision a few years ago to stop packaging the Utility programs separately. But with 6 months left on my current subscription, but no ability to benefit from it because of Systemworks' inability to run LiveUpdate, I will be looking for a better/replacement product. I doubt I will look at Symantec products in the future. Too bad, Symantec has taken a great product line and made it bloated and unstable, and even Symantec support is virtually helpless to resolve their own problems.

HORRIBLE product
I recently upgraded to the Systemworks 2006, assuming that it was "better and improved". What a mistake! This program has been a headache from the get go. I reformatted my computer prior to the initial install, so I did not expirence the same installation problems that others here did. But I promise, even if you get this installed, it's a mess. First, the GoBack feature is nothing more than a terror that slows your computer and eats your resources. Then the program ended up allowing a virus to get through, and not only could it not remove it, I couldn't manually remove it either. So I had to reformat again, less than a month after it was installed. Read more

Editorial Review

With the increase in viruses, spyware, hackers, e-mail scams, online predators and other online attacks, it’s more important than ever to protect you and your family. You need an easy way to protect your PC, files, identity, and online experience. McAfee Internet Security Suite is the protection you need to keep you and your family safe when surfing the Web, shopping, banking, playing games and enjoying other online activities. McAfee Internet Security Suite also allows you to back up your files, and restore lost or corrupted data. Get the confidence you need knowing McAfee shields your PC around the clock.Read more

Features

• Automatically blocks, cleans, and removes viruses and spyware so you can surf the Web the safely
• Protects and conceals your computer from hackers so you can connect to the Internet safely
• Parental controls allow you to filter offensive content, pictures, and Web sites to help keep your children safe when online
• The simple but powerful automated backup can restore photos, music, videos and other important files
• Prevents spam and phishing scams so you can e-mail friends and family safely

Reviews (1)

Buyer Beware!
If you buy this product simply because you think it will be free after rebate then think twice. A requirement to get the $30 competitive/upgrade rebate is the proof of purchase presumably located in the top inside flap of the box. Believe me, I have looked real hard and cannot find it in the box I have received. Mcafee has decided to include a two page user manual which only outlines the software installation procedure. ... Read more

Editorial Review

If you're a Mac user, Quicken 2007 for Mac is exactly what you want to manage all of your finances. With Quicken for Mac, you can track, save and invest with the ultimate personal financial management software created for the Macintosh platform. Quicken for Mac now delivers all the most important features and benefits of Quicken Deluxe 2007 for Windows -- along with exciting Mac exclusives that leverage the full power of the Macintosh operating system.Read more

Features

• No rebate needed - not eligible for Intuit mail in rebates.
• Schedule bills payments in iCal; never miss another bill due date again
• Easily track and analyze the performance of your stocks, bonds, mutual funds, IRA's and 401(k)'s
• Use iPhoto to create visual portfolio of your valuables; ideal for insurance applications and claims
• Keeps all your tax documents in one place; connect to your online accounts in minutes

Reviews (7)

Quicken 2007 Mac is Crash King...
I just got my copy from Amazon yesterday. Installed it in my MacBook Pro to upgrade from Quicken 2002. The result was a disaster. Luckily I have backups.
Not worth the upgrade
The ONLY reason I upgrade is because of the loss ofonline support after so many years. There is no major improvements and running on Intel Mac is a new set of problems. After Apple made Quicken the company it is, they left Apple to rot with Quick Books. Try MYOB they supported Mac when Quicken left the building.

I upgrade only when I'm forced...
Another year's worth of eye candy from Intuit, with no substantive changes.
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Editorial Review

Whether you're a cooking pro or a novice, MasterCook Deluxe 9.0 will make the time you spend in kitchen more enjoyable and efficient, and the results will definitely be more delicious. At the heart of MasterCook Deluxe 9.0 is over 8,000 recipes, including appetizers, entrees, desserts, grill recipes, and even kid-friendly foods. The program will help you find the perfect recipe for the occasion, plan and shop for ingredients, and learn new techniques in the process.

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Features

• CD-ROM
• Meal-planning software with 8,000+ recipes and 100s of international recipes
• Thorough search capabilities; expert nutritional analysis
• Professional tips, cooking for a crowd, and essential cooking techniques
• Enjoy 400 savory baking recipes with step-by-step instructions
• Print shopping lists for single recipes or entire menus, or download to PDA

Reviews (22)

not what I thought it would be
I got this program a couple of weeks ago and so far I hate it. My biggest pet peeve is that it alphabitizes everything. If you create seperate cookbooks, categories within cookbooks and recipes within categories, they are all alphabatized. I already have my recipes in the order I want them and I would like them to stay that way when I input them. If anynoe has a fix to this short of numbering everything, let me know.
Web Icon
The Web Icon (for direct import from the internet) is worth the price of the software

Very Pleased
I have tried several different recipe books for the computer and hadn't been happy about any of them until I bought Mastercook Deluxe 9.0. I am very skilled on the computer, yet my biggest frustration with other software was that it "looked" difficult. I felt like it was old software from like 15 years ago!! Mastercook is very easy to use giving you the option to search for recipes by calories, ingredients, etc. You can change serving amounts which then adjusts the recipe-I have used this a lot!! The only thing I don't like is that not all of the recipes have pictures. But it's not a big deal. I love that I can add my own recipes and importing, exporting and emailing recipes has become so simple. I really do love this product and recommend it to anyone. ... Read more

Reviews (1)

A Step Up
EndNote has stepped up with the new X Student Version. It is easier to use, mostly because of its organization and instruction.
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Features

• Solve math problems while saving the world in this educational software program
• Combines exciting, fast-action game play with state-standard math content
• Builds confidence, speed, and accuracy in basic math skills
• Covers addition, subtraction, multiplication, and division
• 8 levels; parent/player-selected difficulty level; automatic progress reports

Reviews (10)

WHY NOT MAKE IT FUN!?
I have every single (that I know of) Math Blaster game out there. My kids love them all. I saw this one and couldn't resist buying it. My 12, 10, and 7 year-olds all play this version. (It's too simple for the 12 year old, but he plays as a reward for piano practice - so I'm not too concerned about his refreshing earlier math skills.) My thought it to have each child play the grade level above theirs, and that's ususally right where they're at. Yes, there are a few annoying glitches in the way some of the characters can and cannot move around (I don't play them myself to know well) but I would hope that children are not so whiny that it matters too much. I think every family should have Math Blaster Geometry, Algebra, and all grade levels. If you can make math fun, and use it as a POSITIVE REWARD...that is called a "win win"! :)

OK but some serious problems
This concept is good but the user interface and playability is terrible.My 7-year old was frustrated with being forced to use the keyboard and no mouse.And we couldn't figure out a way to go back to the main menu without exiting the game.And playing a later level requires you to go through all the earlier levels.And...did they actually test this thing on humans?What a waste of potential.It is a good concept.

A HUGE Disappoint !!
My son had an earlier version of Math Blaster, it was wonderful.I saw this new version and expected more of the same.WRONG!!After 10 minutes of loud sounds, and pulsing video, he was complaining.It was impossible to focus on what he should do with all the distracting background stuff. Never could get to a point where learning might take place.Wish I could get my money back.
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Features

• CD-ROM
• Hyper Stylized FPS Action
• Supernatural Storyline
• Larger-than-life enemies
• Advanced Graphics-Cinematic Special Effects
• Multi-Player Action

Reviews (158)

If you needed an excuse to buy a better video card
Game Play:
It's not what you're thinking
This game is so popular only because of advertisement. Just think about these facts: the single player is so short that it take no longer than 4 hours, and the story is extremely stupid, especially the ending when there is nuclear explosion, and our hero flyes out of there on helecopter!!!
Fun game, BUT......
it just couldn't hold my attention. I guess I still hold all 1st person shooters to the Half Life 2 standard.
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Features

• Proven typing instruction methods; measure progress and save results
• Typing tutorial for kids in an entertaining and educational environment
• Step-by-step typing instruction; 100s of lessons and tests
• Visual guides to finger/key placement; 11 action-packed games
• Varying, skill-level settings allow young students to advance at different paces

Reviews (2)

Great for kids and even adults can use this
I got this software from Office max. which is on sale for $8 on last week.
Really great for young children!
I bought this title because the first Typing Instructor For Kids got such good reviews.I was looking for a way to teach my 8yo son keyboarding.He has always had a terrible time with handwriting.I knew I needed really easy, slow-paced typing instruction for him, or he wouldn't get it.
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Editorial Review

Backing up your system might seem like a hassle, but when you lose your important data right before a big meeting, event, or project due date, you'll wish you had. Norton Ghost 10.0 makes backing up so simple that you will no longer have to worry about it--it automatically backs up any and all data, including photos, music, tax documents, and more, making it ideal for home users, too.Read more

Features

• CD-ROM
• Automatically back up and recover everything on your computer
• Recovers system and data even when you can't restart your operating system
• Automatically detects storage devices, analyzes your system, and offers backup advice
• Back up to a variety of media including CD and DVD drives, USB and FireWire devices, and Iomega Zip and Jaz drives
• One-step setup wizard makes installation and configuration quick and easy

Reviews (57)

Doesn't see my USB Harddrive
I purchased Ghost 10 specifically because of it's claim that it can back up to a separate hard drive through USB. Although I can see my USB HDD in Explorer and in the Computer Management screen and see that everything is working, Ghost 10 doesn't see it in the destination disk drive options.
I can't get it to work at all
There is nothing wrong with my existing hard drive. I am just trying to upgrade to a larger one. Everytime I try to use this program for anything, whether it is for making a disc image or just using some of the utilities, it freezes up right when it starts. The freeze is so deep that mjy whole computer locks up completely and I have to shut it down and restart it again. I have never had any other program make my computer freeze up like that. I'm talking such a deep freeze the mouse pointer freeezes. So deep you can't even CTRL-ALT-DEL to restart. I haven't dealt with stuff like that in about 7 years since I had a much older computer. This product, at least for me, is 100% worthless.

Ghost Recovery will work for some and not work for others
Read the reviews here or on any other Ghost forum and you see the problems so I will not reiterate here. I will say that if you think of buying Ghost 10 or any other back up software, Stop and think before you make that purchase.You can download a trail for FREE. Do that.Run a back up and try to recover and make sure the Recovery is compatible with your hardware. Retest after any hardware change. If you feel comfortable with your product and you like the way it works, then go ahead and buy it. Here are what are argumentatively the top 3 Disk backup software (at least as far as toptenreviews.com writes) and all 3 have a FREE trials. They are Acronis True Image, Paragon Drive Back (which I settled on) and Norton Ghost which needs an external environment that it is compatible with to recover. ... Read more

Features

• CD-ROM
• Streamline day-to-day tasks with this 2-D drafting software
• Native DWG file format compatibility; Dynamic Blocks
• Integration of the popular layer management Express Tools
• Get efficient plotting through a streamlined plot user interface
• Easily share information electronically with team members

Reviews (3)

auto cad lt 2007
the only problem is the amount of tutorial, i know you can't write to every level, but the turorial (getting started) for a first timer user was a little diffcult.

ACAD Lt 2007
The 2007 release has more overall command power than I've experanced in the recent past.However,there is one group of commands I would like to see it aquire, that being the Express group of commands.I've been using ACAD since release 11 and the ability to go to express and utilize the layer off/ on control is second to none.I realize that it may be standard in a full blown version, but a small business such as mine can't always afford the full version right away.

AutoCAD LT 2007 - JDeBaise
AutoCad is the best CAD system I have ever used and I have used AutoCAD LT going back to at least 2000, 2004 being my prior upgrade. AutoCAD LT 2007 is a definite step up. It is an easy upgrade to use, if you are familiar with prior AutoCAD LT editions, but it has some very nice improvements such as:
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Features

• CD-ROM
• Word processing combined with professional script formatting
• Designed for writing movie scripts, television episodics, and stage plays
• Automatically paginates and formats script to industry standards
• 100-percent cross-platform compatibility; easily import/export files
• 50+ templates; text to speech, have your script read back to you

Reviews (48)

Final Draft 7 does the job.
When I wrote my incredible screenplay on Final Draft 7 I was amazed. My first screenplay was done on Word and took forever to format. The only problem is that my screenplay sits and waits for representation--it's an awe-inspiring story and I can be reached at wlux22 at aol dot com.
A Beginner's Thoughts.
Even though I have done a lot of writing in my life, I had never written a complete screenplay.I've had lots of ideas, but had never written them down.I finally decided to get some of these ideas out on paper.I knew from talking with friends who already work in the industry that script readers are very particular when it comes to the format of a screenplay and that one formatting error can cause someone to throw away an otherwise wonderful script.I considered other screenwriting software, but after speaking with my industry insider friends and doing other research I felt that FINAL DRAFT was the best software to get.I've been using FINAL DRAFT 7 for awhile now and have not had any problems with it.For writing screenplays, I love this software.I have not had any trouble with the software not loading and I've not lost anything I've ever written (though I tend to save a lot of my work frequently anyway).I've read most of the other reviews about FINAL DRAFT 7 on Amazon and it seems that people either really like the software or they hate it.I fall into the former category and have found it quite useful.For a beginning screenwriter, it works wonderfully.The only downside I have with the software is that it is quite expensive.As an educator, I was able to get a discount. FINAL DRAFT offers a discount for students, educators, and military personnel, but if you're not able to get that discount then the software is about double the cost that it should be.

What a transformation!
Reformatted previously written scripts.The script was transformed to a professional looking one.I was going to rate this a 5 but reformatting is a slow process but well worth it!I have still a lot to learn! Loved it immediately. ... Read more

Features

• CD-ROM
• Brand new Action mode, with Diamond and Sapphire tiles
• Save your High Scores in the Hall of Fame
• Upload your high scores to the Internet

Reviews (28)

Very addicting game
Bookworm Deluxe has been a neat change of pace type game for me. I usually play things like Doom 3, Joint Ops and so on but they can sometimes get boring. This game challenges the mind and you can easily loose track of time playing it. I've also found that it can be an educational tool if you have young kids just learning how to spell. There are a few really strange words in this game and the only thing from keeping this little gem from being a true educational tool is a better way to find out what some of those words mean. To some extent the game does this but it only seems to show up on certain words. Other then that it's a pretty cool way to challenge the mind.
Bookworm
A very enjoyable game, that can be saved to play again at a later date.Can compete with others without being online while playing.If you like words and spelling, this is the game for you.

Big Disappointment
My wife and I played the free demo game online and loved it from day one,so when i saw it for sale for $13.94 I jumped on it. The delivery was really fast,BookWorm was delivered within two days,My wife and I were really excited and ready two play,opened the packaging, popped in the disk and nothing happened ,I mean absolutely nothing,they sent me a blank disc. EACH ONE TEACH ONE. I just learned the hard way so you should'nt have to,Dont Order This Product, They're selling blank discs. YOU'VE BEEN WARNED!!!! ... Read more

Features

• CD-ROM
• When the king and queen go on vacation, young Fritz is left in charge of the castle. As he explores his surroundings, he'll learn all about chess, from the basics to advanced strategies -- and so will you!
• Discover 7 great arcade-style games that introduce chess fundamentals and advanced concepts
• Fun characters like Fritz and Chesster make learning the game fun and interesting for children
• Also includes a one-year membership to playchess.com

Reviews (56)

Don't buy this worthless game unless you love to be frustrated
I was looking for an intructional CD to help my daughter to learn chess.I read the reviews and endorsements and thought that this was what I was looking for.WRONG!
Great Trainer for New Chess Player
Our 7-year old loves this program and is learning chess the fast, fun and easy way.

Disappointing chess product
I was extremely disappointed with this chess software. With my newest PC I bought this year, the program is buggy when it comes to sound and music, which they do acknowledge in their manual.
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Features

• CD-ROM
• Real-time security updates; new attack protection capabilities
• Powerful antivirus protection that stops viruses before they infect your PC
• Proactive firewall protection with multiple layers of security
• Improved operating-system firewall; wireless PC protection
• Essential email security quarantines suspicious attachments

Editorial Review

Plan it, customize it, drive it. Every trip is a good one with Microsoft Streets and Trips 2007. This comprehensive trip planning software makes route planning a snap, around town or anywhere across the U.S. and Canada. As the number one best-selling travel and map software, it gets you where you're going quickly, easily, and without all the guesswork.Read more

Features

• CD-ROM
• DVD-ROM
• Comprehensive trip planning software makes route planning a snap
• Live Search feature lets you find current business listings when you're online, then take them with you
• Full screen navigation mode makes it easy to know where you are
• Easy reverse route option makes planning your way back or retracing your steps easy
• Contains all the latest maps for the U.S. and Canada

Reviews (1)

Shipping Time Frame is WRONG!
Yes I like the product, but Amazon misleads you about when they can ship it.Said USUALLY ships in 24 hours and I paid more to get 3 to 5 days shipping.Now they email me saying there is a delay (AND YOU CAN'T CANCEL THE ORDER).I ordered on Oct. 17, 2006 and their email now says the new est. date is Oct. 26th through Oct. 29th.AND...what is NOT funny... the web site says if you order it NOW you get free 2nd day delivery.I guess they needed my software to sell to someone else.They are still making me pay for the 3-5 day shipping and the only way I can stop this order is to wait until it arrives and either reject it (won't happen since this is a company) orI'll have to spend my dime, time, and trouble to return it.WATCH OUT about AMAZON misleading you on the availability. ... Read more

Editorial Review

If you know how to track your finances through your check book, you'll find Quicken Premier 2007 a breeze to use. Just like your checking account, Quicken Premier lets you easily track where you money goes and where it comes from. But unlike your checkbook, which can take hours to balance, Quicken Premier 2007 can help you reconcile your bank statements in a matter of minutes. With more than 123 customer-suggested improvements over the 2006 version, Quicken Premier 2007 is designed to make tracking your personal finances easier than ever. Quicken Premier 2007 lets you control your spending. With a single click, you can run reports that will show you exactly where you're money is going, and how much is coming in.