Quantcast
 

DropMyRights

Downloads Count: 8,870

License Type: Free

Price: Free

Date Added: Sep 12, 2006

Operating Systems: Windows 2000, Windows XP

File Size: 164 KB

Author: Michael Howard

Recommend
this download?

Most Popular in Firewalls

See more popular software»

 
Description of DropMyRights

A growing number of security tools are taking a new approach to fighting malicious software. Rather than blocking each virus, they aim to limit malware's power to cause harm even if it gets in. One of the better free apps that adopts this preventive strategy is DropMyRights, a small program that opens selected programs under limited user rights.

Developed by Michael Howard, a Microsoft senior security program manager, it has been around since 2004; though Howard works for Microsoft, the company doesn't market the app. It works with any program, but before using it you need to make some quick changes. After installing it, you must create a shortcut for each program that you want to use with it (or you must modify the existing one). Howard provides full instructions with screen shots at his Microsoft Security Developer Center page.

If you click a Web link in another program, such as Word, your default browser will start normally, without DropMyRights protection (unless it is running with DropMyRights, too). To get the extra security, copy and paste the link after starting your browser via the specially prepared shortcut.

Microsoft plans to include a "protected mode" in Vista that will run IE 7 without admin privileges, much as DropMyRights does. Redmond is also trying to take the aggravation out of running day-to-day with a LUA (least-privileged user account), though current Vista betas suggest that it still has some work to do.

Click here for more information on the new types of security tools that proactively limit the power of viruses and other malicious software to infiltrate and damage your system.

--Erik Larkin

Sponsored Links
 
You are browsing Firewalls

PC World Related Content

15 Great, Free Privacy Downloads

These free products can save you from malicious software and eavesdroppers. Don't leave your PC exposed and vulnerable.

Downloads FAQ

If you have questions about finding, downloading, or opening files in our library, you'll probably find the answers here.

Visit the Downloads FAQ »

Special Offer
special offer

SpeedUpMyPC 3

SpeedUpMyPC is the award winning utility software that ensures your PC is automatically optimized for maximum performance in just a few easy clicks."/>

More information

PC World Community

Most Recent Threads

Name City
Address 1 State Zip
Address 2 E-mail (optional)