Making sure all the different software packages on your machine are up to date is generally a very good idea. Everyone sees the high profile security holes in Microsoft Windows, Internet Explorer, as well as others. Microsoft gets the lion's share of attention because they are the largest provider of the computer tools we use on a day to day basis. But every piece of software we use needs security patches, even image editors and instant messaging clients.

I've just recently built a couple new systems and it really hit me how the necessity of software installation and updating is being used now to force feed us with any number of accessory apps, or as Walt Mossberg would say, "Craplets". This is one of the few times when the producer of software has your attention and can ask you if you are interested in other products they may offer. Sadly, this brief, transient interaction we have with Apple, Microsoft, Adobe, or Yahoo! is one that now universally leaves a bad taste in our mouths. Not only are they trying to obfuscate additional craplet installation, they are partnering with other craplet producers to piggy back yet even more crap into whatever we actually wanted.

I'm almost shocked to say it, but Apple is one of the worst offenders. You just can't get iTunes without Quicktime, no matter how carefully you try to install it. I'm not going to reinvent the rant, however. My renewed outrage came after reading Dominic Humphries' recent blog... here. Check it out, it's well worth the read.

---Jack

http://geekblog.oneandoneis2.org/index.php/2010/01/14/hypocrisy-noun