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8/10
SUPERIOR TO SYMANTEC'S SYSTEMSUITE 2004by - October 21, 2003
Pros: The only program on the market with *powerful* utilities (SystemWorks 2004 is just a collection of interfaces to Microsoft's own utilities - think of it...).
Cons: The product has no con's. It's just superior value for money. It's only too bad that V-Com is faced with such a big competitor who throws more money into marketing than product development. PEOPLE BUY SYSTEMWORKS INSTEAD OF SystemWorks2004 - I KNOW AS I H
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User Rating: 8/10
Yes there are still software companies who don't ripp theire customers off.by - October 15, 2003
Pros: Loads and Loads of USEFUL features. The competition (Symantec Systemworks) has given up already - all they do is charge you $50 for an interface behind which are just the lame Microsoft tools. THIS PRODUCT HOWEVER is the way to go. Powah!
Cons: Unfortunately not well-known.
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User Rating: 
7/10
SystemSuite 5 is Great!by - October 1, 2003
Pros: Excellent Product! All tests work fine with no bugs or software problems. Very happy with this edition.
Cons: Firewall is too slow, prefer ZoneAlarm (free download) to this one. Anti-virus is questionable, prefer to use Norton instead.
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User Rating: 
4/10
SS5-What a waste of moneyby - September 25, 2003
Pros: I purchaed SS5 after using SS4 for the last 2 years. I noticed that the only new difference to SS5 is the color. All the utility programs appear the same, except for advanced buttons on the Anti-Virus. The firewall is useless, takes too long to load up an
Cons: see above
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User Rating: 4/10
SYSTEMSUITE 5- WHAT A LOSER!!by - August 14, 2003
Pros: Nice improvement over SystemSuite 4 with the inital face page. Majority of programs are the same as SS4. The response time from questions sent to the Tech Dept is excellent. I received answers back within 48 hrs via email. Unfortunately, the responses bac
Cons: Firewall has a software problem, as confirmed by their Tech Dept. A reboot of the computer, prior to going online needs to be completed first. The firewall will not allow any internet access during the inital startup. SS5 Tech Dept. stated that this is a
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User Rating: 4/10
THIS PROGRAM IS A CONTROL FREAK!!!by - June 15, 2003
Pros: Worked beautifully on Windows 98SE (Windows Me is a different story). Price is great when compared to similar products (although I'm learning the hard way that low price sometimes equals low value). It would be really easy to use, if only it worked!
Cons: Refuses to work properly on Windows Me. Hogs all the system resources, freezes halfway in the middle of running a utility. Internet (I have DSL) and related internet programs (such as Weatherbug) would not work as long as this program was installed (Syste
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User Rating: 8/10
IF YOU ARE LOOKING FOR A GREAT UTILITY, LOOK NO FURTHER!!!by - April 26, 2003
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I used to be a faithful user of Norton SystemWorks, for the last 5 years. Lately, I noticed that their product seems to be getting thinner and thinner with the software included. After receiving constant freeze ups during some of the tests and slowdowns on my computer speed, I decided to try SystemSuite 4.0. I seen it at WalMart for $39.00. It installed with no problem and the tests ran fine. There are quite a few additional software/hardware tests that are included in the program. The hard drive tests are much faster than Norton, as is the Defrag test also. My computer does increase in speed after running all the tests. The file cleanup section is excellent and has Norton beat by a mile. The tech support and tech web page leaves alot to be considered. Norton does win in the section. The few times I emailed the tech support, I received confusing and unintelligent answers. The final response from the tech, after I sent approx 15 emails back and forth, trying to fix the download problem, was "I don't know what else to say, the case is closed". Not very professional I feel. I currently use SystemSuite 4.0, but have eliminated the firewall and anti-virus. I received several virus's through a music download site, but the anti-virus did not catch them. It also took several tries using the anti-virus function until I finally got the file and virus removed. I use Norton Anti-Virus and Zone Alarm. Both work great and I feel I am getting the best of everything. Norton SystemWorks 2003 brought my system to a grinding halt and also shattered my registry. Luckily, I made the floppies to rescue my system, that saved me from sure disaster. I will not use the SystemWorks until it has received a total overhall and Norton begins to compete somewhat with the additional programs that SystemSuite includes in their utility. One big thumbs up for SystemSuite 4.0
User Rating: 8/10
...great for my ME Systemby - April 22, 2003
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I've been using Windows ME for the past few months. It crashes, a lot. But since I used SystemSuite 4.0, it makes it crashed lesser, far better than I expected. I've only used this fer a week though, it works fine, but I do not know wad will happen later. Anyway, I, too converted to SS 4.0 from Norton, after a review from PC ADVISOR (Issue 87, Dec 2002 Pg 154) and it works! NSW lacks Firewall and it's anti-virus has only 366 days period and then it expires!! SS4.0 has unlimited days plus it has firewall and great utilites.
User Rating: 
6/10
NORTON WHO???by - April 14, 2003
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I won't go into detail the problems I encountered with Norton Utilities and I won't go into detail how much I love this products. It's a matter of opinion and everyone's computer is different. All I can say is that my computer is just as fast and stable as the day I used this product and until I see a reason to go elsewhere I am a Systemsuite user for now!!!
User Rating: 7/10
A WINNER!!!!by - March 28, 2003
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I have been a faithful user of NSW for many years. Due to recent software conflicts, I have left the Norton family. I decided to try SS 4.0 after reading the box at BestBuy. The product installed with no problem and the op's guide was easy reading. All the tests worked fine and received no problems. I have not noticed any computer slowdown, like I did with Norton. I use GoBack Deluxe, Zone Alarm Pro with SS 4.0 and have had no problems. I am very happy with this product and have not suffered any conflicts like I have read in the negative column of reader reviews. The product has many more tests to run and are more indepth compared to Norton System Works. The amount of computer problems I had suffered with Norton was unreal. I noticed that when I removed the Norton product from my computer, everything increased in speed and the prior error messages I constantly kept getting on the screen disappeared. I noticed no dramatic reduction in PCU speed with SS 4.0 installed. Very good product. A winner in my book!
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5/10
Unstable with XPby - March 11, 2003
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After reading 'great' reviews for Ontrack Systemsuite 4.0, i decided i would make the purchase. With a happy heart i decide to install the suite according to the instructions. It was only when i tried to get an update, i received the message, that it was unable to connect, even though i was. When i tried to access the Ontrack web site, i was informed that v-com had purchased/taken over the system. So now i've got a new piece of software, i cant get updates fro it, not only that but like so many theres certain systems within the suite will not work for the XP user, well for me that is. It only leaves me to say, i wished i had read the reviews on the site, before purchasing, very dissapointing.
User Rating: 
3/10
Too much fluxuation in quality and support!by - March 3, 2003
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I have been on a roller coaster ride with this "System Suite 4.0" package. One problem after another. Some aspects of the utilities are great (at times). But, the bad here far out weighs the good. Seldom have I received an answer back for a query, and, if by chance I get an answer, it is no where near the solution. And now, my virus tables have disappeared, the virus scan buttons won't work, 'easy recovery' won't load, easy update is useless---due to it won't connect to the server, and once again, 3 days have passed, and I have received no answer on my problem, via E-mail. Sorry, but what appeared at first to be an answer to multiple utility needs for a great price has revealed itself as a great pain. I was in hopes that 'V-com' would be loyal to the product and continue to refine it; truly, it has marvelous potential, but alas.... Judging by some of the prices I've seen that they are now charging for it, you would think that they would put more effort into taking care of their customers, in regard to the product. Well, whatever the reason is, it's obvious that there is a problem somewhere. No, I wouldn't recommened 'System Suite 4.0". At least, not with things the way they are now.
User Rating: 3/10
CHEAP SOFTWARE FOR A CHEAP PRICE1by - February 16, 2003
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I am sure you all heard it before, "you get for what you paid for". If you buy something cheap, you will get a cheap product. This is what you will get with SystemSuite 4.0. I have faithfully used Norton for many years, but after seeing SS 4.0 at Walmart and Bestbuy for $39.95, I decided to give it a try. The entire software homepages appear low class in design. I had problems with the system update key, and I believe it was due to the Ontrack to V-com changeover. Dealing with the tech support was about as helpful as talking to my dog. I sent approx 15 email's and received back some of the most idiotic answers known to man. The final answer from them suited me the best about their knowledge, it said "I don't know"! After several months of using SS 4.0, I notice that my system seemed to be slowing down. I ran the defrag when needed and also the disk repair. I used the anti-virus often and downloaded when needed, but nothing seemed to clear the slowness up. After getting tired of this, and looking at the poor homepage display, I decided to uninstall SS 4.0. I then returned to my NSW 2003 and it immedietly found 2 virus's on my computer. This was something that SS 4.0 did not find. After running the tests and fixing my computer back to normal with Norton, I am happy to say that I returned to Norton. Yea, it might cost more, but you get for what you paid for. Why drive a junk mobile, when you have the choice to drive a Rolls Royce? I'm back to stay with Norton. Never had a problem with NSW 2003 or NSW Internet Security.
User Rating: 8/10
-- just keeps on tickingby - January 21, 2003
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I converted to SS4.0 from NSW during the fall of 2001 mainly because of the inclusion of the Sygate firewall and I kept having system problems with NSW. So far I have had no problems with the product, with the exception that virus scanner occasionally does load,which one gets a message error for, but always does on restart. My system has never been infected by a virus and the firewall works flawlessly. The review comment about this software not having an outgoing e-mail virus check it meaningless to me. Using a stand alone computer, I would never think of sending missives that include viruses. V-com has purchased this software from Ontrack. However, I am still getting my automatic anti-virus updates for the orginal purchase price. This in itself is a value in these days of the 12 month subscription of such updates. I can't address the issues others raise about how it functions with Windows XP, but with Windows ME everything works just fine.
User Rating: 8/10
Best Utilities Suite I've Usedby - January 16, 2003
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This package for me has Norton System Works beat 10 times over. It has not caused one conflict with other software or hardware (as Norton does), and the rescue disk has saved me from having to restore my entire system from scratch. As everyone (including your own reviewers)rave about Norton, Roxio Go Back, (which by the way, has caused many other software/hardware conflicts), etc., I have found this product to be the most stable, reliable and troublefree system utilty I have used (and I have used all the ones mentioned in my review).
User Rating: 7/10
This Suite Sinks Norton!by - January 13, 2003
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After doing a side by side comparison of SS 4.0 and NSW 2003, I would highly recommend SS 4.0. It is faster, has more options and is priced excellent. I have had fewer problems using SS 4.0 compared to NSW 2003 and noticed it does not drag my computer resources like NSW. Norton needs to get its act together, because this suite sinks Norton!
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1/10
DON'T WASTE YOUR MONEYby - January 6, 2003
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I have run Fix-it Utilities, SS 2000, SS 3.0 and loved them all. I even gave SS 3.0 as gifts to my family; now I'm embarassed! One of the features I liked best was Win Customizer; gone in SS 4.0. SS 3.0 is not that old, yet I guess that V-com has no intention of patching Easy Update to download Trend Micro's Anti-virus files. This can still be done manually but what a pain. V-com won't see any of my money! My Ontrack System Suite 4.0 stays on the shelf where it belongs! Hey, V-com! Are you listening? Word of mouth advertising is the best!
User Rating: 
2/10
Do not purchace. No Supportby - December 27, 2002
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Purchaced new and can not get correct down loads for this product. I am returning to Norton's. I had been with them for over four years but someone recommended this product. Forget it. I will bite the bullet and loose the bucks.
User Rating: 6/10
Wipes out the others!!by - December 10, 2002
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I have tried Norton SystemWorks and SystemSuite side by side on separate computers. I noticed that SystemSuite is extremely fast on completing the tests without a problem, while Norton seems to drag on and on with their test times. The Disk Doctor in the 2002 version of Norton was a nightmare, due to constant restarting. I had to shut down anything and everything that was running, in order for it to work correctly. SystemSuite has always worked fine with no problems and if you read the ops guide, there should be no problems encountered. I recently had a problem with the Easy Update section (for downloads), which I feel had occurred due to change of business ownership of Systemsuite. It would not work properly or at all. Only recently it had began working properly again. Overall, in my book, SystemSuite beats the others, Norton or McAfee products.
User Rating: 3/10
Uninstall not for XP says Vendorby - December 9, 2002
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Uninstall Wizard (which also contains Archive and Backup)jammed on first try; won't reinstall. "Not very effective in XP" is the lame answer from their Tech Support (which seems to be the usual non-intuitive and hard-to-reach ugly stepchild of the operation). All the "experts" (including our Genial Hosts) praised this utilities suite lavishly, but when I pay good money for a highly-touted product I expect ALL the features to work. "Not very effective", indeed. MAKE it effective, Clyde, that's what I paid you for.
User Rating: 7/10
Overall it does what it promises.by - December 4, 2002
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Generally a good product. I have had no problem with it, except that I had to "turn-off" the Windows FAX manager software and Outlook in order view the firewall logs. Also, it is worth the time to download the updates.
User Rating: 1/10
Don't Bother with This Junk!!!by - December 2, 2002
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Arg,I've used Ontrack for years with no problems, but the new and "improved" SystemSuite SUX. The EasyUpdate is no longer easy. It told me I needed to update so I tried, went to the site, then to the other one , downloaded the 11m (4.0.30.13) update and it told me it couldn't find the program on my HD. What a hassle! The only thing it's good for now is the best selling tool for NortonSystemWorks!!!
User Rating: 2/10
Why waste time with this?by - December 2, 2002
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I am going to dump this trash and go back to Norton SystemWorks. I have just completed sending approx. 15 emails to V-Com tech support in reference to the Easy Update not working anymore. Since the company changeover from Ontrack to V-com, the Easy Update has stopped working correctly as before. Now it goes through the motions and then shows a error box, stating it "timed out". Tech Support tried everything, or though it seems, and then sends me a email saying they couldn't help out anymore. I have a cable modem and never had previous problems with this. This now creates too much of a hassle to download anti-virus updates from a separate web page and then having to double check that the dates are confirmed prior to downloading. Back to NORTON, which worked always, when needed!!
User Rating: 3/10
It trashed WinXP.by - December 2, 2002
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I used Ontrack System Suite 3.0 with WinME for 2 years before upgrading to WinXP, and never had a problem with it. I never had a problem with WinXP, either, until upgrading to the 4.0 version. Good grief. I couldn't even do a System Restore...it wiped out all the Restore points and disabled it. It must have deleted some important system file(s) too. Their tech support did get back to me, albeit 2 days later, but they were no help. Their only advice was to do a System Restore. (Jeez, why didn't I think of that?) I had to do a complete reinstall, and then all that horrible time-consuming Windows updating. Things still aren't as good as they were. I finally got a stable OS, and Ontrack screwed that up. Don't waste your money. It isn't worth it.
User Rating: 8/10
Leaner meaner than Nortonby - December 2, 2002
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Careful, thoughtful use of the registry and disk tools by the user make this suite superior to Norton. I never could get NSW or NIS 2002 to work on a fresh install of WXP Pro. SS works just fine, less resource hog
User Rating: 3/10
Not worth anythingby - December 2, 2002
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You want something to slow your system down to a crawl...only supports Internet Explorer broswer. Locks up your system. Misses viruses...is poorly integrated and has non-existent support...this is the system utility suite for you...but not for me. Pure Junk.
User Rating: 
9/10
A good productby - December 2, 2002
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The only real question I have had is with the occasional problem loading new virus definition files.
User Rating: 6/10
What Happen to Easy Update?by - November 20, 2002
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Since the takeover of Ontrack by V-Com, my Easy Update has stopped working. I now have to go to the web site if I need to download the anti-virus updates. The problem is that this is a pain to do, since you have to double check the version I have first prior to download. I have emailed v-com several times, and their responses are prompt, usually within 2 days. The problem is that nothing they have suggested works yet. They sent me a email stating that the system is now fixed and working, I did and still no response, Easy Update states that the download has "timed out" and to try again. I emailed again and they told me to uninstall and reinstall, well, Easy Update still does not work. I have just sent off my 4th email to their Tech Center, hopefully this is the last time I have to do this.
User Rating: 3/10
Missed the mark with V4.0by - November 20, 2002
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I previously had version 3.0 and upgraded to version 4.0. Then, I would have rated this utility as recommended with 8's. Since then, the company split/reorganization and the easy-update fails to function. I downloaded Fix-it 4.0.30.13 from the web site to see if it would easy update the anti virus defintion file. The new version stripped the anti virus and several other utilities from the program. I have e-mailed the company and no one has replied in the past month. I will re-install the original CD version of Fix-it and try to be happy with it until I purchase a competitors utility. I would strongly recommend shopping with the competitors.
User Rating: 6/10
Blows Norton out of the water!!by - November 13, 2002
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Since I installed the SS 4.0, I have not had a problem, which was the complete opposite of NSW 2003. The tests run faster and I like the detailed results. It has more than enough options to run various tests on the computer. I hope it continues since V-Com took over.
User Rating: 4/10
Lousy Anti-Virusby - November 8, 2002
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I got a virus from the website Kazaa and it took several tries until the SystemSuite 4.0 virus tool finally eliminated it. I had problems with it messing up the files on the hard drives
User Rating: 8/10
if you don't use XPby - September 28, 2002
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this has been so beneficial I have not had my machine so well groomed prior to installing the systemsuite. We thought that norton was the industry standard. But when it comes to analyzing the registry and cleaning and optimizing the hard drive, norton missed many registry entry that were useless. Ontrack is powerful and simple. I don't know if they have it down on the XP os yet though? Sold!
User Rating: 8/10
Best I've ever used.by - August 14, 2002
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Some say Norton is the Best, but I have never had my Computer crash using System Suite and I sent Norton back after it just screwed with everything. I still can't get rid of my Norton trash can. Ontrack caught the KLEX.H virus that came thru my email.
User Rating: 8/10
Beats ANY symantec productby - August 7, 2002
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I have ended up uninstalling every product by Norton/Symantech. This suite puts YOU in the decision making seat w/o "in the background" screwing things up like Norton.
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10/10
Better than SystemWorksby - July 2, 2002
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I have XP and after installing it, System suite cleaned up my XP so much that I couldn't believe it! I also have SystemWorks, but it is not comparable to OnTrack's System Suite 4.0. You will not be disappointed. But you must run Easy Update feature after installing it to update the features for XP.
User Rating: 7/10
Good package on a budget.by - July 2, 2002
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If you can't afford full retail versions of many of the tools included on SS4 (Diskeeper7, NortonAV, Sygate Firewall, etc.), this is the best all-in-one collection that I've seen at an affordible price. Some of the features can be dangerous in the wrong hands (if you can't follow instructions, you shouldn't even bother), so avoid using the wizards. Works wonders on Win98 and WinME. Still useful on Win2K, but you're better off getting individual retail packages for protection and maintenance. Had difficulty loading and running it on WinXP. Ultimately it's a good bargain package for basic to intermediate users.
User Rating: 6/10
It's better to create your own "suite"by - June 27, 2002
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I tried SS 4.0 for a week.. The Defrag feature is convoluted.. I prefer Diskeeper 7.0. The antivirus is okay, but it's "watered" down version of Trend Micro's PC Cillin... I use NOD32... The firewall is actually pretty good, but you can get more features and stability by downloading the "real" thing, Sygate Personal Firewall. I use the pro version... The registry cleaner is dangerous, I use Regclean... The data restorer is a partial version, you have to pay more to get the full version.. In other words, you are paying for a "sneak" preview... My way is expensive, but more effective.. You can buy SS 4.0 for $39.95 at Target Dept. Stores.. I paid over $200 for all my stuff, including window washer, and Guard Ie.. I am better off..
User Rating: 5/10
Deleted alot of system files,dll.,msi install filesby - June 26, 2002
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I really liked this program at first untill I used the defrag tool which totaly jerked my files all over the comp so it ran 50% slower on my winxp home edition. I am unsure which program the registry cleaner or the system cleaner are to blame for the fact I am missing alot of sys. files and am unable to run quite afew admin tools in winxp,because Soon as I rebooted problems popped up and are still affecting my sys. Maybe I got a bad cd But I have to say watch the hell out for this thing,make sure you backup your registry and do a system restore
User Rating: 6/10
The most unstable suite I've ever seenby - June 25, 2002
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Since I installed this product, all it does is crash my games. And doesn't do that much. Bottom line if you play games, don't buy this product. I recomend Norton system works.
User Rating: 10/10
The Best There Is.by - June 22, 2002
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After Norton SystemWorks trashed my registry under Windows 2000, I installed SystemSuite 4.0. SystemSuite repaired the damage to my registry, and found a virus that the Norton suite had missed. Ontrack SystemSuite checks ALL e-mail, incoming and outgoing. The defragger is better than Norton's, and it has diagnostic capabilities that surpass the Norton suite's. I will stay with Ontrack!
User Rating: 10/10
Really nice piece of softwareby - June 12, 2002
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Very well integrated and like most others comments, so much better than Norton or McAfee. You know how Windows slows down over time, and it's nice to reinstall. I used the registry fixer, registry defrag and disk defrag and it has speeded up my system back to what it should be after a new, clean installation. I have done this on ME and 2K systems and used the other tools all without any problems. Very, very good piece of software! I really can't understand why a few people have difficulty with this software.
User Rating: 8/10
Great package!by - May 27, 2002
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Using it with XP,and it has never given me any problems,the firewall is excellent,made by Sygate I believe,only a few programs that don`t work with XP but it tells you so & I`m sure these will work in the next updated version.If you want the best get Ontrack SS v4 .
User Rating: 10/10
Great program - highest recommendationby - May 26, 2002
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I've used about all the different suites of this type through the years and SystemSuite beats them all. Norton has blown up on me numerous times when trying to do harddrive intensive work and that has never occurred in any version of SystemSuite. This software and ZoneAlarm (free or Pro) are the only recommendations I make for "Must Have" software.
User Rating: 4/10
Buggy on XPby - May 22, 2002
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I installed Ontrack SystemSuite 4.0 on my XP system. The first thing I tried to do was run the EasyUpdate wizard to make sure that I had all current virus definition files and product patches. I immmediately got an error stating that EasyUpdate was unable to connect and that I should make sure my system could access the internet. (It could: browser and email working just fine.) I even temporarily disabled my firewall to be sure that EasyUpdate could get through. No luck. I wrote to Ontrack tech support about this issue. It's been 3 days and I'm still waiting for an answer. Next, I wanted to run the Disk Fix tools. It identified that I needed to first run a CHKDSK /f to repair some problems. Fair enough. However, upon reboot my system hung up at the point that SystemSuite began loading into the tray. Ultimately, I had to boot into safe mode (this took several attempts to get in without a lock up) and rollback my system to an XP restore point from before I installed SystemSuite. Don't bother looking for support documentation on the Ontrack web site. There is none. It just has a half dozen FAQ entries for the product. Will I try the product again? Only after I make another backup of my system! Actually, I'd like to get a refund.
User Rating: 7/10
Very good program but read the directions first!by - April 14, 2002
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I'll always read the directions before I install any type of software again. I used Windows ME when I first installed SystemSuite 4.0. I forgot to read that you had to restart after installation, so I ran the SpeedUp wizard and when it was done, all the files were renamed to happy faces and other symbols. I had to reformat, but it was OK since I put all my data on another secure partition. When I installed Windows 98 and reinstalled SystemSuite 4.0, I actually restarted and ran the SpeedUp wizard again. This time it did not rename my files, instead it speed up my system about 50%! Very good problem except they got rid of WinCustomizer (oh well, they got free customizers on CNET)
User Rating: 4/10
What's a good price for half a car?by - April 9, 2002
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Reviews often talk of how nicely integrated the utilities are in this package. They fail to mention that many of the features do not work with Win ME or XP. Other complaints: Website has exactly one FAQ! The Antivirus misses many trojans. Most of the diagnotics/repair utilities have qualifiers--limited NTFS support, limited XP support. The so-called disk recovery is little more than a teaser ad for Ontrack's expensive disk damage recovery service.
User Rating: 5/10
Its Ok but Symantec rules OKby - March 29, 2002
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RegistryDefrag locks up and has never completed on my system. Uninstalling Fixit 4.0 until I get an answer somewhere on the Internet...returning to good old Norton SystemWorks. Pity, Fixit 4.0 is actualy nice.
User Rating: 8/10
User Friendly and full of great featuresby - March 27, 2002
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I like System Suite 4.0 because it has someting of quality for everyone. The other utility suites seem to have fewer and fewer user options with each new release. Do give this your thorough consideration.
User Rating: 9/10
Not a Resource Robberby - March 8, 2002
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The great thing about SS4 is that besides providing a full range of system utilities, it DOES not rob your computer of excessive resources.
User Rating: 10/10
Supurb productby - March 7, 2002
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Everything is intuative and easy to use lots of bonus utilities + free updates. Is not a resource hog like Norton
User Rating: 10/10
As good as it getsby - February 27, 2002
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For the price and features available in this program, you can't go wrong. Dependable performance that's as good at the "big boys".
User Rating: 3/10
THIS IS HORRIBLE EVIL SOFTWARE!by - February 21, 2002
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im not one for writing reviews, but this software REALLY hosed up my machine. first, after doing a registry "clean", my machine would reboot and go into setup, and then into and endless loop of rebooting and setup again and again. after i had to re-install windows. i thought , well i paid the 50 bucks, i should give it one more try. UGH! i did a disk defrag, and it renamed every mp3 file on my machine into just random numbers, and dumped them into the trash. just because i store my mp3s in a directory called "temp". ***??? there is a free program called regcleaner that is totally safe, and you can find it at jv16.org. its written by some 18 year old kid. ontrack needs to get its $hit together.
User Rating: 6/10
Doesn't worth the priceby - February 7, 2002
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I heard so much good about this Suite, but not much was true. The only two good parts were the anti-virus software and the easy recovery. The firewall is far inferior to Zonealarm, there's less options to adjust it. The uninstall utility was unable to diferntiate between Corel and MS Office.
User Rating: 10/10
Simple, Effective, Lean Softwareby - February 1, 2002
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Bought this as McAfee began to really drag my system performance. Ontrack's virus scan update is quick and simple. Defrag takes a long time, but is much more thorough than the native Win98 version. Registry cleaner and defrag really speeds things up, too. The guys who make this are true HD experts from day one. Their software used to ship on nearly every HD before LDA came along. Firewall even works well behind my NAT--thought I'd have some problems but not one. Surprised me how much stuff it catches even behind a NAT.
User Rating: 9/10
Soups of your system great!by - January 30, 2002
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This utility is worth the price just for the way it re-arranged my hard drive so as to optimize the programs I use the most. MUCH fast boot-up.
User Rating: 5/10
Mediocre, at bestby - January 26, 2002
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The defrag utility is one of the worst designed I've seen. The disk checker isn't even as good as scan disk. The only modules worthwhile are the disk recovery utility and the firewall( a rip-off from Sygate). Save your money and go out to dinner.
User Rating: 10/10
Does everything I need it too in one packageby - January 21, 2002
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This program set has kept my system running smoothly ever since I installed it. Prior to that I would get system hangs while using several of my programs. I am no software expert so cleaning up registry files was beyond me. This program makes doing that a breeze and it has stopped several viruses that were about to be downloaded to my system. And I like the fact that the firewall asks about letting things access the net even if they have only had an update downloaded, the firewall seems to almost configure itself for you. I would recommend this product to anyone looking for a system maintenance software package
User Rating: 5/10
Not ready for Win XPby - January 17, 2002
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I purchased version 4.0 because of the recovery software that was included. I had a system crash which resulted in the loss of two of my partitions, and I was hoping to recover data on the FAT32 partition. The packaging proudly touted that it was WindowsXP compatible and included a WinXP for Dummies book as well. Although I could boot to Windows, the program would NOT install for several ridiculous reasons "Invalid G: Drive" and "My Documents has invalid character". I had to perform a new install of XP to install there program. I formatted the partition as FAT32, because the boot disk was supposed to work if you had a FAT32 file system in XP. I ran the recovery software and was able to pull only a small number of the files I wanted. Disappointing, but still better than no recovery at all. I decided to install the Firewall software. Bad move, my system rebooted and would not boot into windows and corrupted several files each time. The included boot disk brought up a blank menu, so was usless. Fortunately, I was able to boot to a command prompt and run the Windows Restore utility to return my settings to earlier settings. Please note: Ontracks web site is useless. The information that is available is usually for earlier versions and covers absolutely nothing on WinXP. The applications may be great under another OS, but frankly I can't recommend it for XP.
User Rating: 9/10
Best Windows Tech tool everby - January 3, 2002
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For a tech person, System Suite 4.0 offers something not available from Norton or McAfee's offerings. That is the ability to do an excellent job of maintaing a Windows system, especially the files and Registry, WITHOUT trying to take over the PC. Norton and McAfee, if left to their own devices on Install, will turn a Gigahertz Pentium into a 486 SX. System Suite can do as good or better without taking an enormous bite out of system resources. The Registry repair tool is awesome. With a basic knowledge of the Windows Registry, I have brought systems back to health that would have required HOURS of troubleshooting, backing up data and finally FORMAT C:. SS4 has never damaged a registry that I used it on. I rated the Support average because I have never had to call them. The help files are excellent, all the docs you may need, and SS4 discreetly pops up a warning whenever you might do something to hurt the system. If you do Windows tech support as part of your job, this is a Must Have.
User Rating: 3/10
All Glitter, No Glueby - January 1, 2002
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unstable, buggy, registry cleaning tools can cause serious problems with your system.
User Rating: 1/10
Great packageby - December 27, 2001
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Great package that includes a lot of useful software. Wonder how strong the firewall is...
User Rating: 7/10
Best Value and Beats Nortonby - December 26, 2001
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I've run SystemSuite and SystemWorks against each other on Win95 and Win98 and concluded from actual performance that Ontrack (formerly Mijenix) beats Norton/Symantec, but SystemWorks is pretty good, except as noted below. I'm now testing on WinXP and agree that not all features of SystemSuite work, but from other reports it appears that SystemWorks (now including GoBack) will crash and trash XP systems (so I'm not risking that on my own system). My advice is that no suite does everything right. Recommend that you not use included firewall on WinXP with multi-users. Either use WinXP native firewall or ZoneAlarm. Also recommend using either Norton or McAfee antivirus rather than included Ontrack/Trend Micro. But, other utilities (that work) seem to do the trick, and PowerDesk 4 is great as ever. Always be loyal to truth, and judge performance by actual results. Your own system may have idiosyncrasies that make a difference in your experience. I've run Compaq Presario, HP, Gateway, and Dell (Dimension 8200). General advice: avoid Compaq, but get the maximum RAM in any event, then use good utilities.
User Rating: 9/10
Best utility suite I've usedby - December 18, 2001
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I'eve used Norton System Works before, but it seemed to cause system stbility problems. SystemSuite is much better for me. Just upgraded from 3.0 to 4.0 and it works fine with Windows XP. Highly recommended.
User Rating: 2/10
Aweful - in both my Win2Ksp2/XP env'sby - December 13, 2001
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At first glance, I thought I'd stumbled onto something that would make PC Sysadmin a little easier - if it sounds to good, it is. It has crashed ALL mid to heavy users in both 2K and XP environments. Quite possibly a combination of COM event errors, Firewall ACL denials, and regular file permisison exceptions - none of which should cause a USER GUI to hang. Good thing for Norton Ghost, which I'd used prior to and significant upgrade to backout with. I wish It weren't true, honest. PS - Should have found it odd that there was one phase that said XP compatible (headline banner giff) but nowhere listed is any write-ups. Also, a google search yields almost exclusively their own marketing mumbo jumbo, which very little user community discussion - another red flag.
User Rating: 3/10
Suprizedby - December 9, 2001
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I have used Fixit utilities for several years and not had any difficulties. While using this version with windows XP I had many problems which caused me to have to use system recovery.
User Rating: 8/10
It's the most complete utility suite.by - December 2, 2001
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This is an excellent product.I am very impressed with the seven utilities fully integrated. I also like that PowerDesk 4 Pro is included.
User Rating: 8/10
many features and they work well togetherby - November 29, 2001
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since I wanted a product that would support win 9x thru xp, this was the only one available. the bonus was the array of features that are tightly integrated and work well and the price won't blow your budget. virus checker could be better, although it has not failed me.
User Rating: 8/10
Now better than Nortonby - November 27, 2001
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I have been using Norton products since the era of the 286 (remember?) always with great satisfaction. Ever since the installation of NSW 2001 I ran into compatibility issues with other products. Ontrack does not seem to have this problem. The only things I prefer in Norton are the system monitors and Speeddisk. Overall I can highly recommend this product.
User Rating: 9/10
rjmno1@hotmail.comby - November 24, 2001
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very good progamm and i,m looking for bugs system running at win me ill keep in touch with you guys
User Rating: 8/10
Great product.by - November 13, 2001
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Does a good job and is easy to set up and use. No major problems. All new programs have glitches which I'm sure Ontrack will correct as they are identified.
User Rating: 9/10
Excellent Product - Great Priceby - November 13, 2001
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Having used both the McAfee and Symantec offerings in the past, I prefer SystemSuite in almost all particulars. You can turn off the firewall and use ZoneAlarm (as I do), configure it to check e-mail for virii, use its un/zip wizards from within the program or as a stand alone (right-click) option, and--added to all that--it comes with PowerDesk 4 Pro, a superb file manager with integrated viewer. As well, I've never had it take more than two business days to get a technical support response when I wanted clarification on a feature or setup option. I do have a couple of issues with the program: there is no option of defragmenting or virus-scanning network drives (there are work-arounds, but still), it doesn't scan outgoing mail for virii (yet), and their upgrade pricing is--while excellent--sometimes confusing. Overall, on a scale of 1-10, I'd give it a 9.5.
User Rating: 8/10
preffer that than norton...by - November 12, 2001
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this suite have few nice features which very well suit even inexperienced users. automatic clean of empty registry keys is noe of these, so is defrag and chkdsk for win2000/xp. virus program unfortunately is after sh*t, i use therefore norton as an antivirus and that one as rest of it. where norton try to take over your computer this allow you freedom of setting absolutely everything to your liking and requirements. removal is also easy, program is worth it's money where i have my doubts about norton suite. should know i use both for different tasks... antivirus yo norton all rest to ontrack
User Rating: 3/10
El Cheepoby - November 12, 2001
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You get what you pay for, not much. Made in some down town store like 'El Cheepo' bargain basement. you will crash your system for sure you have been warned!
User Rating: 1/10
The CD comes with six viruses.by - November 12, 2001
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I have to get Norton anti virus software to get rid of all of the viruses that are on the System Suite CD.
User Rating: 10/10
Best suite for the money!by - November 12, 2001
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Meets all your basic security and system management needs. Virus scanner (Trend Micro) seems faster than NAV2002. Firewall (Sygate) on par with Zone Alarm but has better logging features.
User Rating: 7/10
Better than Norton Systemworks!by - November 12, 2001
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This utility suite is faster and more stable than Systemworks from Norton. Simple as that!
User Rating: 7/10
GOOD BUY FOR THE NUMBER OF FEATURESby - November 12, 2001
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I love this program it has tons of features. I bought it mainly becasue I've heard alot of good things about it. It a great progam and all but I really don't like how it crash the computer at start up. Maybe it's becasue I have mulitple virus scaners running or because I have clean sweep and this installed not sure. That's a nice firewall acts up everynow and then, for example I go to dial up works fine one day I can surf and stuff the next day I have problems doesn't let me go anywhere nor do anything, and I didn't even change any settings. If it weren't for the crashing and the firewall trouble I would give it a 5 in quality and a 4 in stability.
User Rating: 8/10
Twice as much for half the price of Nortonby - November 12, 2001
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The review fails to mention the included utilities such as Explorer Plus and the PowerDesk Toolbar, both handy editions to any system.
User Rating: 9/10
Better than Nortonsby - November 11, 2001
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A nice set of utilities the antivirus program is much improved, and the NetDefense personal firewall is great its nice to know you have a choice
User Rating: 8/10
Stable and efficientby - November 9, 2001
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I much prefer Ontrack to Norton. This is easy to use and takes care of my PC problems.
User Rating: 7/10
Disappointing compared to previous versions.by - November 9, 2001
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Virus protection does not seem to compare with Norton Antivirus software. Some of the programs of the previous versions no longer exist in this newer version. Has problems doing disk fixes in winXP.
User Rating: 8/10
Extremely good product for the price !!by - November 9, 2001
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Installation was a snap. Easy to use. Updating the virus library is very simple to do. After using both Norton and Mcafee products for several years, I am very happy with SystemSuite 4.0.
User Rating: 8/10
This is a very handy, easy to set of tools.by - November 8, 2001
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I miss rapid acess to individual utillities that they had in previous versions. Now you have to guess what tool group any particular tool you are looking is grouped under. Otherwise, at least all the tool are completely functional now.
User Rating: 10/10
A jack of all trades and master of most.by - November 8, 2001
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Imaginative, highly inclusive and effective way to find, fix and prevent computer problems, and the price is right!
User Rating: 1/10
all in one with free virus updatesby - November 8, 2001
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a smi Mac like interface is very clean and all features can be reached fom main screen. Pretty easy evn for new PC users. I have used rhe previois 2 versions
User Rating: 6/10
This is not an XP productby - November 8, 2001
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You have to read the specifications very carefully. Nowhere does it say this product is XP compatible. In fact some of the sub products do not work well with XP. Other than this, Ontrack makes a great product-good bang for the buck. I will wait for the XP release to buy my copy.
User Rating: 8/10
Alot of bang for the buck!by - November 8, 2001
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Lots of features for the novice, with a very easy and friendly interface. Can keep your PC "shining" very easily and painlessly.
User Rating: 6/10
Anti-Virus is WEAK!by - November 8, 2001
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Misses viruses,...........Not a good thing. Trend PC Cillin is better that them all.
User Rating: 7/10
best package on the marketby - November 8, 2001
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Great interface and all the options you need, and it's Windows XP-compatible.
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