Windows has a handy feature that will automatically find new updates and enable you to download them in one seamless click. But, If you want to find new releases ( or new version or patches) for all the non Microsoft software and applications. How do you find latest updates in this case ?
Some freeware utilities and apps has been shared here that monitor your installed software programs and notify you of available new version and security updates for those software programs /apps.
Secunia PSI – (Windows) It scan your computer for outdated and insecure software/applications. The advanced mode give you a detailed report on insecure software, patches, updates and apps that no longer supported by developers ( end of life option in advanced mode). They also offer a free online scan to keep your software programs up-to-date. Secunia is one of the best freeware application to keep your software programs updated and ensure security for your software installed on PC.
Software informer – (Windows) I personally like Software informer. This is the another utility to chec
k and download updates for software you’ve installed on your computer. Software informer not only enable you to automatically check latest versions of software but also enable you to communicate, ask question, discuss and get feedback from users with similar interests. It offers a powerful software related social network which make this a perfect freeware to keep to your software and apps up to date. Software informer is a light weight utility with a nice interface. It scan your whole computer, display the list of software with updates download links right inside the application windows and it will then redirect to a webpage where it prepare a guest profile ( for unregister user ) that display a list of outdated software installed on your pc along with installers for new releases/updates.
FileHippo update checker – (Windows) FileHippo check a variety of software for updates. Its runs on Windows and use .net framework. First, it scan your computer and It will then redirect you to a new browser windows where it display a list of new software releases/updates along with download links.
CNET techtracker – (Windows) It work pretty similar to FileHippo update tracker. It scan your computer, find out the latest version and then redirect to a webpage that contain installers links for outdated software/apps installed on your computer machine. A little drawback of this utility is that you must need to sign in to CNET website to access the installers links.
RadarSync PC updater – (for Windows) In addition to software updates, Radarsync PC updator can also find updates for your hardware (or device drivers). Trail version report about the outdated software installed on your PC . You cannot download patches or updates directly through trail version. However, you can simply search on Google and download the updates from vendor/ developer websites.
App Update – (Mac) If you are in apple fan club, this widget is made for you. It’s a free of cost Mac dashboard widget that automatically check the latest for the software installed on your Mac computer.
Other utility and apps to keep your system updated ( for Windows ) – AppSnap, DriverMax (for device drivers), Update Notifier and Update Star.