The new Network Magic 5.0 is actually quite different from its predecessor 4.8. The software's newest edition has a reworked interface with an interactive network map and wizards to aid users in various set-ups.
Users are sure to find the Network Map function especially helpful, as it reveals every single device that is connected to your network, including printers, other computers or handhelds as well as other types of network devices. Even more helpful is the software's ability to show a message each time a new device connects to your network.
The Network Map, which was unavailable on previous versions of Network Magic, also offers a wealth of helpful information such as a detailed status and network advisory, which is sure to come in handy. The security has also been improved, adding network health upgrades and security alert capabilities along with encryption support for WPA and WPA2.
Network Magic 5.0 delivers the goods by performing well and seamlessly completing all of the usually complicated tasks it is designed to undertake, but there is one major downfall. The software installs a few items, including the Pure Network Platform and the Network Magic front-end software, that run by themselves in the background each time you start the computer. It is because of these installed items that your computer, especially when it accesses the Internet, will run considerably slower than normal.
It of course depends on your system and the type of Internet connection you have, but many have complained of a very noticeable delay when trying to do something as mundane as opening Internet Explorer, which is usually an instantaneous operation for most users. The larger the network you are managing with Network Magic 5.0, the worse the delay -- which can also extend to the managing and using of various files on your computer.
Aside from the delay due to the installed items previously mentioned, another cause of the minor delay is something that Network Magic triggers in Windows. 5.0 turns on an obscure and usually disabled feature on Windows that constantly scans other computers in the network for scheduled tasks. Aside from these minor inconveniences, those seeking easy-to-use and guaranteed-to-work networking software will surely be pleased with Network 5.0's performance and capabilities.
Conclusion
Let's face it: consumers don't have a huge of array of options in terms of being able to both find and afford network management software that allows them to set up, manage and secure their networks like an IT professional. Network Magic 5.0 will prove to be an incredibly helpful and beneficial resource to anyone looking to manage their home or office network without the usual hassle of more complicated software or even worse, having to figure it all out themselves.
A lot of the software on the market may perform the same basic tasks as Network Magic 5.0, but the process of installing this other software is more of a headache than it's worth. The new 5.0 edition comes equipped with an array of incredibly helpful wizards and a help menu that makes installing the software about as easy as it will soon be to manage your network -- which is to say it's a snap.
The current state of the economy has left all of us looking for affordable versions of the things we need. As a consumer, navigating the world of consumer electronics and software programs may seem overwhelming, especially when considering the price points of much of the networking software available today. The Network Magic 5.0 networking software is an incredibly budget-friendly option for those of us looking to stay connected without having to break the bank, which makes this product well worth its price.
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