Unknown Publisher

[SkyRider]

I downloaded VLC from http://www.videolan.org/vlc/. When I went to install it, I got a popup message that said "unknown publisher".

Is it safe for me to install VLC on my computer?

 

[ooh-ya-more]

I've had vlc on my computer for at least a year and have had no problems with it.

 

[onehunglow]

Has something to do with windows not being able to verify the publisher of the program. I use it all the time for its versatility and being able to play just about anything. Enjoy without fear.

 

[Anynym]

Has something to do with windows not being able to verify the publisher of the program. I use it all the time for its versatility and being able to play just about anything. Enjoy without fear.

Precisely.

When you connect to a website using "https" instead of "http", the browser will verify that the website is what it claims to be by using "secure certificates" (basically, a cryptographically-signed file, signed by a "trusted" entity (root certificates built into the browser)).

When you install new Windows software, Windows will do a similar check, and if the software isn't "signed" by a "trusted" entity, it'll pop up the warning. If you trust the source of the software, all is fine. And VLC, downloaded directly from its source, is fine.

 

[SkyRider]

Enjoy without fear.

Thanks. If nobody expresses any reservations in the next couple of days I'll proceed with the installation of VLC.

 

[nofrill]

vlc player is a renowned media player which has one of the biggest format compatibility. I have been using it for years. As long as you download it from the developer's webiste and not some sleazy torrent sites, you should be fine. I won't worry about the "unknown publisher" Windows 7 because they only verify the programs from people who pay them to do it. There are tons of sourceforge programs that are not verified by Windows 7.

 

[trod]

no need to worry if you have downloaded it from the official website or a reputed download site.

 

[SkyRider]

no need to worry if you have downloaded it from the official website or a reputed download site.

Could you provide me with a link to the official website and/or a reputable website? Thanks so much.

 

[WoodPeckr]

Could you provide me with a link to the official website and/or a reputable website? Thanks so much.

For Windows apps and programs I've always trusted www.Download.com or from the official website of the program desired.

http://download.cnet.com/VLC-Media-Player/3000-13632_4-10267151.html?tag=contentBody;centerColumn

 

[SkyRider]

I just checked the CNET website. Someone there said that CNET downloads are full of bloatware/malware. Avoid.

Instead, use http://www.videolan.org/vlc/.

 

[b4u]

I just checked the CNET website. Someone there said that CNET downloads are full of bloatware/malware. Avoid.

Instead, use http://www.videolan.org/vlc/.

VLC is an excellent product and it's always best to get it from the source whenever possible. the quoted url is the correct source.
I doubt you will find a file that VLC can't play.