Fast Url Opener 3.18

Overview

After using URL Opener Wizard for a while, I can say it's a very handy tool for someone who visits the same websites on a regular basis. While you could find a very similar list of websites by simply using your browser's built-in favorites, it's never going to be as easily accessible as this program. Essentially, it stores up to 51 URLs, and provides one-click direct access to that URL directly from the program's interface.

Installation

Setting up the program is very easy, just download the installation file and run it. Follow the set-up wizard, and when it's finished, you'll be prompted with a notification stating you have 15 days left in your trial. After your trial expires, you won't be able to use the software until you purchase a license. There was no bundled software or adware, and the program is compatible with most Windows OS (XP, Vista, 7, 8)

Interface

The interface is about as basic as can be, and that's all a program like this calls for to be honest. You're presented with a grid of 27 buttons, users can specify names for each button, as well as pull up an additional 24 buttons by clicking on the "Database". Configuring each button is very simple, there is an option to be in either Open or Preload mode, simply go into Preload mode -- when you try to open a link, it will open up a configuration box instead. Within the config box, you can edit the button name and the specific URL.

Alternatively, clicking on any un-configured button will prompt you to configure it as well. Other than that, there are not a whole lot of settings to worry about, you can change the color scheme of the buttons and that's about it.

Pros

• Very fast, no delay after clicking on a URL button
• Easy to configure, any basic user will have no problem
• Simple, yet appropriate interface
• 51 total URL buttons that can be configured

Cons

• Database serves as the "main window", so you can't access the first 27 URLs until you close it
• Not really any useful bonus configurations whatsoever, such as batch URL openings, or rotating time slots

Alternatives

There isn't a huge market for these types of programs, but an other option is Links Organizer, which is a bit more heavy duty. Links Organizer can manage not only internet links, but desktop shortcuts as well -- which may be a bit overkill for some.

IC Soft Site Manager is another, but is still a bit too bulky to be considered more convenient than a browser bookmark page.

Conclusion

At the end of the day URL Opener Wizard does it's job very well, and even though it's a very simple program, it's usefulness can't be argued against. There is still some room for improvement, and even though the bare minimum features is a nice way to keep it lightweight, some users may prefer just a couple of advanced settings. Still, this is a really useful program, and there isn't anything else quite as convenient as URL Opener Wizard.