Top Ten Most Annoying Software

An article from ZDNet UK lists 10 common, but often infuriating software programs.

The internet has given us countless toys and rewritten the rules of business and entertainment. But it is not without its frustrations. In fact, these frustrations can sometimes outweigh the benefits, leading some to wish the internet had never been invented.

Adobe Reader: We use it simply to read e-books, yet it is bloated like a bureaucracy, with incessant updates (and why does it always require a restart?).

Apple: It makes Microsoft seem like a good guy.

Windows Update: "Restart now," "Do not turn off your computer until 5 updates are complete," "You need to install Microsoft Genuine Advantage," "Please close all applications before installation."

RealPlayer: Its transgressions are too numerous to count; it embeds more ads than the front page of a newspaper (compared to many domestic software programs in China, it's practically a saint).

Java: It's a programming language, but it insists on reminding you how great Sun Microsystems is, promoting OpenOffice, and installing the Yahoo Toolbar on your browser. Is this what a programming language should do?

Yahoo: It tries to control your email, search engine, homepage, not to mention that damn toolbar.

Norton Antivirus: It's like having Satan appear on your desktop. Pre-installed software: Some companies sneak in unwanted extras; Sony is king in this regard—quietly installing programs, adding them to system startups, or consuming vast resources.

Outlook / Exchange: While free web-based email services have rapidly evolved, Outlook/Exchange continues at a snail’s pace, updating only after several years.

Flash: A self-important media player.

Translated by cnbeta.