SUMo Software Update Monitor

To all -

While the OP has good intentions...

It's at your own risk!
I don't suggest it, sorry.

Sumo provides a list of updates to installed programs, listing those with available updates first.
This list is the most comprehensive I know of, including many less well-known programs. As such, it's a convenience tool.

It does not automatically update these programs, so you retain control and can be selective.

There is a free version, which is generally enough.

However it does not distinguish freeware from licensed programs, thus it is easy to find oneself updating a program you licensed using a giveaway license, thereby probably invalidating that.

The Pro version has the advantage that when you choose a program to be updated, it automatically performs a search for the download or takes you to the author's site, whereas when using the free version you have to perform the search manually.

Either way this means links aren't provided by the program- which many might see as a benefit.

Further, Sumo Pro can update itself, rather than the user being prompted that there is an update available (which has to be installed for the program to remain funuctional) - and then having to find and download that and install it.

However: Noting the offer is:
Lifetime license with no updates (how ironic)
- this Pro version will have a limited lifetime, making the offer more a trial for an undefined period.

@dalchina -

I do suggest, Patch My PC. Free.

Patch My PC: Home Page

They have a proven record.

About Us: Our Mission, Our Goals, and Our Purpose | Patch My PC

No strings attached.

Lifetime license with no updates (how ironic)

This is a common tactic. The lifetime license is good forever, on the version you are running. But, update it to the next version and you are back to the free, non-pro version. I like SUMo, but I do not update any software from their "repository", I go to the vendor. It's a good heads-up app, that's about it. Used in conjunction with Patch My PC, and direct notices, all works well.

I would not wrestle with SUMO or alternatives.

It only takes a few minutes to check primary packages for updates. Most can "ET Phone Home" and report back to you if any updates.

Agreed if just a few. Depends how many programs you have installed...and how many of them do that. It's a personal decision...

Compumind said:

@dalchina -

I do suggest, Patch My PC. Free.

Patch My PC: Home Page

They have a proven record.

About Us: Our Mission, Our Goals, and Our Purpose | Patch My PC

No strings attached.

I just looked at the home page for this product, and the list of supported products. Overall, sounds really useful, but I was underwhelmed by the list of supported products. Putting aside Microsoft, a lot of my software either updates automatically, or notifies me when a new release is available.