xpy 1.3.8

Overview

To summarize the capabilities of the xpy, it suffices to say it provides Windows users with an extended sense of security by turning off services as well as settings that could provide major loopholes that could be exploited by third party software or hackers. Given the size of the software application, as well as the fact that it is free of charge, all Windows XP and older users can make great use of it without putting any strain on their system. In fact, xpy not only provides security, but also quite a few tweaks that can make the OS run smoother than ever before.

Installation

The xpy software utility comes in the form of an archive that incorporates the licensing details, the checklist of changes and updates and the installation kit. As mentioned, xpy is very small, in terms of just over 100KB. Once the installation is completed, the user is prompted to agree to the license details and the application is incorporated into the operating system in a matter of seconds. It is important to note that xpy is mainly designed to work with XP and older Windows OSs, however, testing it on Windows 7 revealed no major flaws or incompatibilities.

Interface

The first time that you open xpy, it will display a message regarding the creation of a backup in case the enabling or disabling certain settings causes unwanted effects. The next time xpy is turned on, it will allow reverting to the backup or performing additional modifications to the OS via one of the two checkboxes located in the middle of the window. At the same time, this window can be used to load a certain profile, save the current one, or save the settings as a registry file. Clicking on the next button takes users to the screen that allows them to perform modifications, which comprises of a taskbar that selects what settings should be displayed (e.g., all settings, 3^rd party settings, etc.) and the main window, sorting out the individual settings in categories.

Pros

The key advantage of xpy is that it makes for an excellent security booster for any Windows XP, or older Windows operating system computer. One of the features responsible for this is the ability to disable loopholes like the RPC and the DCOM service, for instance. At the same time, it prevents the computer from interacting with Microsoft without user permission and has its very own list of suggestions of other questionable services. Another thing that can be safely said about xpy is that the performance of the computer is substantially boosted by turning off ineffectual IE, recycle bin or windows media player services and settings, from shortcuts to prefetch directories, and so on.

Cons

xpy, however powerful, could benefit from a bit of documentation, which would make it accessible to less advanced users who are not familiar with the results of turning off certain options or services.

Alternatives

An alternative program that allows users to turn off certain services comes in the form of XP-Antispy.

Conclusion

A powerful security and optimization application for users who know a little of the in's and out's of the Windows XP OS, xpy would have definitely received a 5/5 rating if the developer included the documentation.