Overview

If you enjoy the way the Google search engine works and feels, then one customization you can make, free of charge, on your computer would be to install the Google Desktop application. Overall, this small application allows users to personalize their desktops by adding RSS feeds, Google reader, Gmail, YouTube and many more. Due to its wide array of options, the Google Desktop software utility can give a hand to those that have to handle a large amount of contacts, emails, files or folders on a daily basis. As you probably figured out already, this amazing application will convert your classic Windows desktop into a reliable and efficient search tool.

One of its main impressing features is the gadget bar that you can place anywhere you see fit on your desktop. The basic applications that you will find incorporated in the gadget sidebar include a notification area, where you can see all the incoming notifications from your email and RSS feeds. In addition, you are able to find details about the weather in your area, stock information, or use the file shredder or play music via the sidebar.

Installation

Since the setup file is only 1.92 MB big, the installation is really speedy. During the installation, you will be able to choose the options that you want to have on the gadget sidebar. In order to enjoy the full array of benefits of the Google Desktop, you will need to meet certain criteria regarding the minimum system requirements. Since most people nowadays have broadband internet connections, the minimum system requirements needed are as follows: Windows XP with service pack 2 or better, at least a 1 GHz processor, minimum 512 MB of RAM, at least 5 GB of storage space on the driver you install it on, and a video card capable of a 1024x768 screen resolution. As a side note, once the installation is complete, the application will undergo an indexing phase that will take longer for the first time only.

Interface

Since the interface of the Google Desktop is similar to the search engine, you can realize that it is quite simple to use, regardless of your level of expertise. In essence, the interface provides an easy universal search method across all your local files, internet and the network servers. Therefore, finding a certain important file within your emails has never been easier and it lasts significantly less than if you were to do the search manually in the Gmail inbox.

The basic installation kit of the Google Desktop application contains only the basic gadgets that an average user will need to have quick access to. However, if you disabled a certain gadget during the installation or you want to install more, then all you need to do is click the recommendations link that is located in the Add Gadget menu. Moreover, you will be happy to know that Google Desktop allows you to create your own gadget as well.

Pros

Besides the initial indexing process that might take a bit longer than five minutes, the smart indexing technology incorporated in the Google Desktop application has the advantage of not hindering the performance of your computer in any way. However, the biggest benefit of this software utility is its powerful searching capability that allows you to find a file that you need in a matter of seconds.

Cons

The main issue of the Google Desktop software is that it does not perform well on computers that have a very slow internet connection and lesser system resources. In addition, the latest version does not support Outlook 2010, as reported by some users.

Alternatives

An alternative to Google Desktop is the Copernic Desktop Search, a software utility developed by Copernic Inc. Even though this alternative includes a free version for home users, the problem with it is that due to enhanced security features the business version is paid. Nonetheless, you have a thirty days trial period, which is enough to realize if it meets your company’s needs.

Conclusion

The Google Desktop is quite a nice software utility that can prove very useful for people that need to manage large amounts of data. Developed by the number one search engine manufacturer, you should not expect it to perform less than the high Google standards.