Encounter
I have always enjoyed using the latest software releases; even going as far as taking multiple Windows XP full-screenshots at home, mapping them using Visual Basic 6, and convincing my I.T. teacher that I had managed to upgrade my restricted Windows 2000 school PC.
Making my work unique and stand out more has been an early obsession. Using the latest tools gave me a small advantage. Attempting to install applications on restricted computers was not going to be possible. So while looking for alternative ways to run applications without running the installer, I came across something called Portable Applications.
At the time, my most desired applications to install were Macromedia Fireworks/Dreamweaver and the new Office 2007.
Since Macromedia and Office software were not open-source/free, the portable applications were obtained from websites riddled with viruses.
Launching them with just 1-click, instead of waiting for it to install, was quite fascinating.
Intro
Over the years ... and many fresh OS install after, I began to favour Portable Apps more and more.
There are many reasons to favour Portable Apps, here are a few:
- No Install
- No re-configuration (moving different machines)
- All contained in a single folder
- Very Portable (USB drive, Cloud)
Security
The applications are placed inside a VeraCrypt container and securely encrypted.
To gain access, a portable VeraCrypt directory exists in the root of the USB, beside th encrypted container.
Apps I use
Purpose | |
---|---|
cmder | Console emulator for Windows. Ability to SSH/run linux commands, contains Git, and much more! |
Sublime Text | One of the fastest and best Text Editors out there. |
WinSCP | FTP/SFTP/WebDAV client that makes it easy to organise and encrypt multiple sessions. |
Thunderbird | E-mail client that handles multiple accounts with ease. |
SSH Keys | Used by WinSCP and cmder for password-less login to Home and Remote servers |