Essential Apps to Install on Windows and macOS
Just unboxed a new computer? Here's our curated list of essential Windows and macOS apps for productivity, security, entertainment, and everything you need to get up and running.
7-Zip patches a flaw that could run malware just from opening a bad file
Unlike most software, 7-Zip has no auto-update mechanism, so users must install the fix manually
WinRAR 7.23 fixes bugs, jokes that users are finally paying for it
WinRAR 7.23 fixes two security vulnerabilities, updates its bundled 7-Zip extraction library, and makes a few command-line tweaks. The release notes also include a playful nod to the archiver's legendary "infinite" trial, thanking users who supposedly finally bought the software. It's mostly a joke-but the security patches alone make this update worth installing.
New 7-Zip security flaw could put hundreds of millions of systems at risk
The situation is bad, but a software update is already available
PSA: The widely used 7-Zip utility is once again affected by a potentially dangerous security vulnerability. The open-source file archiver can be exploited to execute malicious code by tricking users into opening specially crafted archives. End users and system administrators are advised to install the latest version of the software as soon as possible.
New "Zombie ZIP" attack can evade most antivirus scanners
However some experts argue the technique is not a true security flaw
Two critical flaws put 7-Zip users at risk of remote code execution
Updated versions are available, but users need to manually install the latest release ASAP
7-Zip 25.00 adds support for more than 64 threads on Windows
7-Zip version 25.00 introduces support for over 64 CPU threads on Windows, enabling the software to fully leverage high-core processors like AMD Threadripper and Intel Xeon. This release also improves bzip2 and deflate compression performance, making it a notable update for users on multi-core systems.
A solid free alternative to WinRAR and 7-Zip, PeaZip launches version 10.5.0
PeaZip is a free file archiver for Windows, Linux, and macOS that supports over 200 formats, including ZIP, 7z, RAR, ISO, and TAR. Built on 7-Zip and Zstandard, it features AES encryption, secure deletion, file hashing, and a built-in file manager.
PSA: 7-Zip vulnerability bypasses Windows security - update now
A high-severity vulnerability in 7-Zip has been discovered, allowing attackers to bypass Windows' Mark-of-the-Web (MotW) security feature and execute malicious code during file extraction. 7-Zip lacks an auto-update function, requiring users to manually update the software.
21 Programs to Analyze and Benchmark Your Hardware
You've just bought a new gaming PC or a laptop for the office. Maybe you just upgraded your PC. You might be into overclocking. But do you know exactly what you've got? How well is that PC actually working? We've compiled a list of 21 programs that are great for analyzing and benchmarking your devices.
The Best Portable Apps for Your Software Toolbox
Portable apps usually offer the same functionality as the regular versions of your favorite software, but without any installers involved. That means you can run them directly from a USB drive or a cloud folder synced across PCs.
7-Zip zero-day vulnerability grants privilege escalation
Not yet patched, but there's a simple workaround
7-Zip expands its array of supported file formats
The good and old 7-Zip remains free and open source yet rivals in features with many other paid alternatives. The 7z format offers a high compression ratio, and the app supports an ample array of formats, making it a one stop solution for all your file compression needs.
Essential Apps You Should Install on a New PC Running Windows or macOS
You just bought a new laptop, built a new desktop PC, or are simply clean installing on a new SSD, good for you! Gotta love the taste of a fresh new machine, but now you have to get back to productivity zen by recovering your files and installing programs. Not sure which ones? Well, let us help.
