Trend Micro Maximum Security - Detailed Review
Security Tools
Trend Micro Maximum Security - Product Overview
Trend Micro Maximum Security Overview
Trend Micro Maximum Security is a comprehensive internet security solution that offers AI-driven protection for a variety of devices, including PCs, Macs, smartphones, tablets, and other mobile devices. Here’s a brief overview of its primary function, target audience, and key features:Primary Function
The primary function of Trend Micro Maximum Security is to provide multi-device protection against a wide range of online threats. It safeguards users from viruses, malware, ransomware, spyware, and other malicious activities, ensuring a secure online experience.Target Audience
This product is designed for individuals and families who use multiple devices and need comprehensive protection for their digital lives. It is particularly useful for those who engage in online banking, shopping, and social media activities, as well as parents who want to keep their children safe online.Key Features
Device Protection
Secures PC, Mac, iOS, Android, and Chromebook devices against malware, viruses, ransomware, and spyware.AI-Powered Protection
Utilizes cloud-based AI technology to deliver highly effective and proactive protection against various threats.Online Safety
Protects webmail from scams and phishing attacks, secures online banking and shopping, and ensures privacy on social media.Parental Controls
Allows parents to set time and content limits to keep children safe online.Performance Optimization
Helps fix common problems and optimizes device performance to keep everything running smoothly.Secure VPN
Includes a secure VPN to protect privacy, especially when using public WiFi.Identity Protection
Offers identity protection to keep personal information safe, manage passwords, and monitor for identity theft.Anti-Track and Ad-Blocker
Stops third parties from collecting user data and blocks ads.Folder Shield
Safeguards valuable files and digital assets both locally and on cloud-synced folders like Dropbox, Google Drive, and Microsoft OneDrive.Gaming Mode
Pauses notifications during gaming to ensure uninterrupted gameplay. Overall, Trend Micro Maximum Security is a versatile and comprehensive security solution that caters to the diverse needs of modern users, providing a secure and protected digital environment. Trend Micro Maximum Security - User Interface and Experience
User Interface
The user interface of Trend Micro Maximum Security is designed to be intuitive and user-friendly, making it accessible to a wide range of users, from those who are less tech-savvy to more advanced users.
Intuitive Interface
The interface is logically arranged, with tools and components organized into clear categories. This makes it easy for users to find what they need without having to search extensively. The main dashboard is simple and straightforward, allowing users to start scans and access key features directly from the main screen.
Modules and Features
The software is divided into four main modules: “Device,” “Privacy,” “Data,” and “Family.” Each module contains several tools and features that are easy to access and manage. For example, the “Device” area includes advanced security settings, a “PC Health Checkup” tool for optimizing device performance, and a “Mute Mode” to block notifications.
Customization and Control
Trend Micro Maximum Security offers a pleasant mix of preconfigured settings and customizable features. Users can choose between slower, in-depth scans or lighter, faster scans, and even schedule scans to target specific areas of the system. This customization extends to email and browser protection, where users can adjust the protection level to suit their needs.
Performance Impact
The software is designed to have a light impact on system performance. Quick scans can be completed in less than five minutes with minimal impact, while full scans, although more time-consuming, still allow other functions to be used during the scanning process.
Additional Tools
In addition to antivirus and anti-malware protection, Trend Micro Maximum Security includes several other useful tools. These include a password manager, Pay Guard for secure online transactions, a device optimizer, Wi-Fi protection, and features like social media privacy protection and a file shredder. These tools are integrated into the interface in a way that is easy to manage and use.
User Experience
The overall user experience is positive, with users praising the software’s ease of use and the lack of significant impact on system performance during scans. The interface is tidy and easy to manage, making it suitable for both inexperienced and demanding users. The availability of video guides, live chat, email support, and social media support channels further enhances the user experience by providing multiple avenues for help when needed.
Conclusion
In summary, Trend Micro Maximum Security offers a user-friendly interface that is easy to navigate, with a range of customizable features and additional tools that enhance the overall security and performance of the user’s devices.
Trend Micro Maximum Security - Key Features and Functionality
Trend Micro Maximum Security Overview
Trend Micro Maximum Security is a comprehensive security solution that integrates various features to protect your devices, data, and online activities. Here are the main features and how they work, including the role of AI:
Device Protection
- Multi-Device Support: This software secures up to 5 devices, including PCs, Macs, Android, and iOS devices, ensuring uniform protection across all your devices.
- Antivirus, Malware, Ransomware, and Spyware Protection: Trend Micro Maximum Security provides protection against a wide range of threats, including viruses, malware, ransomware, and spyware. This is achieved through comprehensive scans, including quick scans, full scans, and custom scans that can be scheduled and customized.
AI-Powered Protection
- Cloud-Based AI Technology: The software uses cloud-based AI to deliver proactive and highly effective protection against known and unknown malware infections. This AI technology helps in identifying and blocking threats in real-time, ensuring you stay ahead of emerging threats.
Web and Email Protection
- Web Threats Blockage: Trend Micro Maximum Security defends against malicious websites that attempt to steal personal and financial data. It includes web monitoring, Wi-Fi inspection, and a firewall to enhance web security.
- Email Protection: The software protects webmail from scams and phishing attacks by aggressively blocking minor risks and checking every email attachment. Users can adjust the protection level according to their needs.
Online Transaction Security
- Pay Guard: This feature ensures the legitimacy of financial sites, providing secure online banking and shopping experiences. It uses the password manager and a safe tool bar to protect online transactions.
Parental Control
- Child Safety: The software includes parental control features that allow parents to set time and content limits, ensuring children can explore the web safely. Settings can be locked behind passwords to prevent unauthorized changes.
Performance Optimization
- Device Optimizer: Trend Micro Maximum Security includes a device optimizer that checks for passwords saved on browsers, programs needing updates, fragmented disk space, and other system improvements. This helps in maintaining the performance of your device.
Identity Theft Protection
- Identity Theft Alerts: The software monitors and alerts you if your email address, credit card, driver’s license, SSN, or other personal information is leaked to the internet or dark web.
Additional Security Features
- Folder Shield: This feature safeguards valuable files and digital assets both locally and on cloud-synced folders like Dropbox, Google Drive, and Microsoft OneDrive. It locks important folders and files with a password to prevent unauthorized access.
- Social Media Privacy Protection: Trend Micro Maximum Security includes tools to secure your privacy on social media platforms.
- File Shredder and Cloud Scanner: The software offers a file shredder to securely delete sensitive files and a cloud scanner to protect cloud-stored data.
VPN and CleanerPro (Maximum Security Plus)
- Secure VPN: For users of the Maximum Security Plus version, a secure VPN is included to protect privacy on public Wi-Fi networks.
- CleanerPro: This is an all-in-one disc cleaning manager that helps in optimizing device performance by cleaning up unnecessary files and data.
AI Integration
- The AI integration in Trend Micro Maximum Security is primarily through its cloud-based AI technology, which enhances threat detection and response. This AI helps in identifying and blocking both known and unknown threats in real-time, ensuring comprehensive protection against malware infections and other online dangers.
These features collectively provide a robust security solution that protects your devices, data, and online activities, leveraging AI to stay ahead of emerging threats.
Trend Micro Maximum Security - Performance and Accuracy
Performance
Trend Micro Maximum Security is known for its efficient performance. Here are some highlights:Scanning Options
- The software offers quick, full, and custom scan options, with the quick scan taking only about 30 seconds and the full scan around 14 minutes and 30 seconds. These scans run without significant impact on device performance.
Optimization Features
- It includes an Optimization Level feature that suggests ways to speed up your computer’s startup time, helping to maintain optimal device performance.
Cloud-Based Protection
- The cloud-based AI technology ensures proactive protection without hindering the user’s experience.
Accuracy
In terms of accuracy, Trend Micro Maximum Security has shown strong results in various tests:EICAR Tests
- In EICAR tests, which use test files to mimic malware and phishing links, Trend Micro passed all three tests by instantly removing malware test files and blocking phishing pages.
AV-Comparatives Tests
- AV-Comparatives tests showed that while Trend Micro was not at the top in real-world protection and malware protection, it still achieved solid scores. For example, it detected 98.1% of threats in real-world protection tests and had a 96.12% malware protection rate. However, it did have a higher number of false positives compared to some other antivirus programs.
SE Labs Testing
- SE Labs testing, although outdated to 2021, indicated a 95% protection accuracy rating and a 96% legitimate accuracy rating, placing it third from the bottom out of 15 antivirus programs at the time.
Limitations and Areas for Improvement
Despite its strengths, there are some areas where Trend Micro Maximum Security could improve:False Positives
- In AV-Comparatives tests, Trend Micro had a higher number of false positives (76) compared to top performers, which could lead to unnecessary alerts and disruptions.
Malware Protection
- The software performed less well in malware protection tests, with a 97.11% detection rate and 391 compromised files, which is lower than some of its competitors.
Browser Extension Issues
- There are specific known issues with the Trend Micro Security extension for Google Chrome, such as not working when the computer resumes from Standby Mode and not blocking malicious sites in Incognito mode.
Additional Features
Trend Micro Maximum Security also offers a range of additional features that enhance its performance and accuracy:AI-Powered Protection
- AI-powered anti-scam protection to defend against malicious websites and online scams.
Identity Theft Protection
- Identity theft protection that monitors and alerts users if their personal information is leaked to the internet or dark web.
Enhanced Folder Shield
- Enhanced Folder Shield to safeguard valuable files and digital assets both locally and on cloud-synced folders.
Trend Micro Maximum Security - Pricing and Plans
Pricing Plans
Maximum Security:
- This plan is available for 1, 3, 5, or 10 devices.
- The prices start at $99.95 for a 1-year subscription for 5 devices, and $159.95 for a 2-year subscription for 5 devices.
- For a single device, the price is slightly lower, but the most common package covers 5 devices.
Features
- Device Protection: Secures PC, Mac, mobile phones, and tablets against malware, viruses, ransomware, and spyware.
- Parental Controls: Keeps children safe online with time and content limits.
- Online Banking and Shopping Security: Uses Pay Guard to ensure the legitimacy of financial sites and protect online transactions.
- Privacy Protection: Secures privacy on social media and blocks dangerous websites that can steal personal data.
- VPN: Includes a secure VPN to protect privacy, especially on public WiFi.
- Disc Cleaning: Comes with CleanerPro, an all-in-one disc cleaning manager.
- Gaming Mode: Pauses notifications during gaming.
- AI Application Protection: Protects AI applications from tampering and abuse.
- Folder Shield: Safeguards documents from unauthorized encryption and backs up files locked by suspicious programs.
- Password Manager: Includes a password manager to protect and manage passwords.
Free Options
- While there is no permanent free version of the Maximum Security plan, Trend Micro offers a 30-day free trial for this product. This allows users to test the features before committing to a purchase.
Additional Free Tools
- Trend Micro also provides several free apps and tools, such as the Crypto-Ransomware File Decryptor Tool, Mobile Security for Android and iOS (with limited features), Password Manager (for up to 5 passwords), and other utilities like HouseCall and Fraud Buster. However, these are separate from the Maximum Security plan and offer limited features compared to the paid subscription.
Trend Micro Maximum Security - Integration and Compatibility
Trend Micro Maximum Security
Trend Micro Maximum Security is a comprehensive security solution that integrates seamlessly with various tools and is compatible across a wide range of platforms and devices. Here’s a detailed look at its integration and compatibility:
Platform Compatibility
Trend Micro Maximum Security supports multiple operating systems, ensuring you can protect all your devices. It is compatible with:
- Microsoft Windows: Including the latest version, Windows 11, as long as you are running the latest version of Trend Micro Security.
- Apple macOS: You can install Trend Micro Antivirus on your Mac, ensuring your Apple devices are well-protected.
- Google’s Android OS: Trend Micro Mobile Security is available for Android devices, including those running Android 5.0 or later, though Android Go and Android One OS are not supported.
- Apple iOS: The security software is compatible with iOS 13.0 or later on 64-bit devices.
- ChromeOS: You can also install the Trend Micro Security Extension on Chromebooks running ChromeOS.
Integration with Other Tools
Trend Micro Maximum Security integrates well with several other security and utility tools:
- Windows Defender Security Center: It integrates seamlessly with Windows Defender Security Center, ensuring comprehensive security coverage by acting as the Virus & threat protection component.
- VPN and Password Manager: The product includes a secure VPN for public WiFi and a Password Manager, both of which are compatible with Windows 11.
- Cloud Services: Trend Micro Maximum Security protects your valuable files and digital assets both locally and on cloud-synced folders like Dropbox, Google Drive, and Microsoft OneDrive.
AI-Driven Protection
The security software leverages cloud-based AI technology to provide highly effective and proactive protection against malware, viruses, ransomware, and other threats. This AI-driven protection helps defend against known and unknown attacks, keeping you ahead of the threat landscape.
Additional Features
Trend Micro Maximum Security also includes several other features that enhance its integration and usability:
- Pay Guard: Ensures the legitimacy of financial sites, securing your online banking and shopping transactions.
- Folder Shield: Safeguards your valuable files and digital assets.
- Identity Theft Protection: Monitors and alerts you if your personal information (such as email address, credit card, driver’s license, SSN) is leaked to the internet or dark web.
Overall, Trend Micro Maximum Security offers comprehensive protection and seamless integration across various devices and platforms, making it a versatile and reliable security solution for your digital life.
Trend Micro Maximum Security - Customer Support and Resources
Customer Support for Trend Micro Maximum Security
If you are using Trend Micro Maximum Security, you have several avenues for customer support and additional resources to help you manage and troubleshoot your security software.
Contacting Customer Support
For any issues or questions, you can reach Trend Micro customer support through various methods:
- Phone Support: If you are a Premium 24×7 Support subscriber, you can sign in to the Help Center using your Trend Micro Account and click the “Call Us” button beside your name to access the premium hotline.
- Live Chat: For installation assistance or other support needs, you can click the chat icon on the Trend Micro Installation Support page for live support.
- Email Support: You can submit an email request through the Email Support form on the Contact Support page.
Specific Support Pages
Trend Micro provides dedicated support pages for different types of issues:
- Subscription and Account Management: Visit the Trend Micro Account Support page for any subscription or account-related queries.
- Installation Assistance: The Trend Micro Installation Support page offers download links and on-screen instructions for installing your product. You can also use the live chat feature here for additional help.
- Product Issues: For troubleshooting or issues with the product, visit the Contact Support page or submit an email request through the Email Support form.
Additional Resources
- Activation and Installation Guides: Detailed steps for activating and installing Trend Micro Maximum Security are available, including entering your Activation Code and serial number during the installation process.
- Frequently Asked Questions: Trend Micro provides a FAQ section that addresses common questions about the software, including how to protect multiple devices and ensure digital safety.
- Business Product Support: If you are using Trend Micro Business products, you can visit the Trend Micro Business Success Portal for specific support and resources.
Specialized Support for Purchases and Renewals
For assistance with purchases, billing, or renewals, you can refer to the phone support details on the official website or in your product documentation. If you purchased your subscription through Best Buy, contact Geek Squad, and if through your ISP, contact them directly.
By utilizing these support options and resources, you can ensure that any issues with Trend Micro Maximum Security are quickly and effectively resolved.
Trend Micro Maximum Security - Pros and Cons
Pros of Trend Micro Maximum Security
Trend Micro Maximum Security offers several significant advantages that make it a compelling choice for those seeking comprehensive security:Multi-Device Protection
This software secures up to 5 devices, including Windows, Mac, Android, iOS, and Chromebook, providing equal protection across all your devices.AI-Powered Protection
It utilizes cloud-based AI technology to deliver proactive and highly effective protection against known and unknown malware infections.Fast Scanning
Trend Micro Maximum Security is known for its fast scanning capabilities, with initial full scans taking around 10 minutes and quick scans completing in under a minute.Additional Security Features
The software includes a range of extra features such as a secure browser for online shopping, a password manager, parental controls, file encryption, a file shredder, and a system optimizer. It also offers identity protection, monitoring your email address, credit card, driver’s license, and SSN for leaks on the internet or dark web.Ransomware and Web Threat Protection
It provides enhanced Folder Shield to safeguard valuable files and digital assets, both locally and on cloud-synced folders like Dropbox, Google Drive, and Microsoft OneDrive. The software also defends against malicious websites and online scams.Customizable Scans
Users can choose from various scan options, including deep scans, selective scans, and custom scans, allowing for flexibility in how and when scans are performed.Performance Optimization
The software includes a device optimizer that checks for passwords saved on browsers, programs needing updates, and fragmented disk space, helping to improve overall system performance.Cons of Trend Micro Maximum Security
While Trend Micro Maximum Security offers many benefits, there are also some notable drawbacks:False Positives
The software tends to flag suspect software frequently, resulting in a high number of false positives, which can be frustrating for users.System Performance Impact
During full and quick scans, Trend Micro Maximum Security can significantly impact system performance, causing a noticeable slowdown in system operations.Lack of Webcam Protection
The software does not provide webcam protection for Windows computers, which is a feature some users might find important.No Unlimited Plan for Large Families
Unlike some competitors, Trend Micro does not offer an unlimited plan for large families, which could be a limitation for some users.Basic Wi-Fi Protection
The Wi-Fi protection is somewhat basic, offering only warning messages for potentially unsafe networks and a firewall booster to detect botnet programs. By considering these pros and cons, you can make an informed decision about whether Trend Micro Maximum Security meets your security needs. Trend Micro Maximum Security - Comparison with Competitors
Trend Micro Maximum Security Key Features
- Provides comprehensive protection for PC, Mac, and mobile devices against viruses, malware, ransomware, and spyware.
- Includes a secure VPN for public WiFi and a CleanerPro for disk management.
- Offers cloud-based AI technology for proactive protection against malware and other threats.
- Features Pay Guard for secure online banking and shopping, and safeguards children with time and content limits.
- Protects webmail from scams and phishing attacks, and secures privacy on social media.
Unique Features
- Trend Micro Maximum Security is recognized by industry experts for providing 100% protection against web threats and phishing scams, a notable distinction.
- The inclusion of a secure VPN and CleanerPro in the upgraded version adds an extra layer of privacy and performance optimization.
Alternatives and Competitors
Zscaler
- Offers a cloud security solution with a Cloud Access Security Broker (CASB) that combines traditional CASB features with advanced security capabilities like behavior analysis and machine learning. It secures sensitive data both in transit and at rest, and identifies threats such as phishing attacks and data exfiltration.
Citrix’s Secure Access
- Focuses on safeguarding cloud-based applications and data by providing a secure connection between users and SaaS apps. This tool is particularly useful for protecting sensitive data from unauthorized access.
Oracle’s Cloud Access Security
- Provides a centralized view of all cloud services used within an organization, enabling quick detection and response to security risks. It includes advanced threat detection capabilities for identifying and responding to various security threats.
Symantec’s CloudSOC
- An enterprise-grade Cloud Access Security solution that offers complete visibility and control over cloud applications and services. It safeguards sensitive data, monitors cloud usage, and enforces security policies.
AI-Driven Security Tools
Darktrace
- Known for its autonomous response technology that interrupts cyber-attacks in real-time. It is highly rated by Gartner and offers a proactive approach to threat prevention.
SentinelOne
- Provides fully autonomous cybersecurity powered by AI, with a strong focus on endpoint security and threat prevention. It is highly rated by Gartner and is recognized for its comprehensive protection.
Balbix
- Uses AI algorithms to continuously analyze the enterprise IT environment, discovering assets, identifying vulnerabilities, and predicting cyberattacks. It quantifies cyber risk in monetary terms and prescribes prioritized actions to reduce risk.
Conclusion
Trend Micro Maximum Security stands out with its comprehensive multi-device protection and cloud-based AI technology. However, alternatives like Zscaler, Citrix’s Secure Access, Oracle’s Cloud Access Security, and Symantec’s CloudSOC offer specialized cloud security solutions. For those looking for more advanced AI-driven tools, options like Darktrace, SentinelOne, and Balbix provide innovative and highly effective threat prevention and risk management capabilities. Each of these alternatives has unique features that may better suit specific security needs and preferences.
Trend Micro Maximum Security - Frequently Asked Questions
Frequently Asked Questions about Trend Micro Maximum Security
What devices does Trend Micro Maximum Security protect?
Trend Micro Maximum Security offers comprehensive protection for a variety of devices, including PCs, laptops, Macs, smartphones, tablets, Android, and Apple products. This ensures that all your devices are equally secured against various online threats.What types of threats does Trend Micro Maximum Security protect against?
Trend Micro Maximum Security protects against a wide range of threats, including viruses, malware, ransomware, spyware, and other types of cyber threats. It also guards against identity theft, phishing scams, and webmail scams, ensuring your online activities are secure.How do I install and activate Trend Micro Maximum Security?
To install Trend Micro Maximum Security, you need to download the installer for your specific device (PC, Mac, or mobile). Once downloaded, double-click the installer and follow the installation steps. During the installation, you will be prompted to enter your serial number to activate the software. Each device requires separate installation and activation.What features are included in Trend Micro Maximum Security?
Trend Micro Maximum Security includes several key features:- Antivirus, anti-malware, anti-ransomware, and anti-spyware protection
- Protection for online banking and shopping with Pay Guard
- Parental controls to keep children safe online
- Secure VPN for protecting privacy on public WiFi
- CleanerPro for disc cleaning management
- Protection against phishing emails and web threats
- Privacy protection on social media
- Notification pause during gaming
How does Trend Micro Maximum Security protect my children online?
Trend Micro Maximum Security includes parental controls that allow you to set both time and content limits for your children. This feature helps ensure that your kids can explore the web safely without exposure to inappropriate or harmful content.Does Trend Micro Maximum Security optimize my device’s performance?
Yes, Trend Micro Maximum Security includes tools to help optimize your device’s performance. It can fix common problems and ensure your device runs at top speed. Additionally, the CleanerPro feature helps in managing and cleaning your device’s storage.Is Trend Micro Maximum Security recognized by industry experts?
Yes, Trend Micro Maximum Security has been recognized by industry experts for its effectiveness. It has won awards such as the AV-Test Institute “Best Protection” Award and “Top Product” award, as well as the AV Comparatives “Anti-Phishing Certification”.How many devices can I protect with Trend Micro Maximum Security?
The number of devices you can protect depends on the subscription plan you choose. Trend Micro offers plans that cover one device, as well as plans that cover multiple devices (e.g., 3 or 6 devices).Does Trend Micro Maximum Security include a VPN?
Yes, the upgraded version of Trend Micro Maximum Security, specifically the Maximum Security Plus package, includes a secure VPN to protect your privacy when using public WiFi.How do I get support for Trend Micro Maximum Security?
Trend Micro offers round-the-clock expert help and remote troubleshooting. You can contact their support team via phone, chat, or email. They also provide extensive resources and guides on their help center website. Trend Micro Maximum Security - Conclusion and Recommendation
Final Assessment of Trend Micro Maximum Security
Trend Micro Maximum Security is a comprehensive and highly effective security solution that leverages advanced AI technology to protect a wide range of devices, including PCs, Macs, smartphones, and tablets. Here’s a detailed look at its features and who would benefit most from using it.Key Features
Multi-Device Protection
It secures PC, Mac, iOS, and Android devices, providing equal security across all your devices.
Comprehensive Threat Protection
It protects against viruses, malware, ransomware, spyware, and other threats, ensuring your devices are safe from various types of cyber attacks.
Online Safety
It safeguards online banking and shopping with Pay Guard, ensuring the legitimacy of financial sites. It also guards against identity theft and blocks dangerous websites that can steal personal data.
Family Safety
It keeps children safe online with time and content limits, allowing them to explore the web safely.
Performance Optimization
It optimizes your device’s performance by fixing common problems and managing disk space effectively.
VPN and CleanerPro
The upgraded version includes a secure VPN to protect your privacy on public WiFi and an all-in-one disc cleaning manager.
AI Application Protection
It protects AI applications from tampering, contamination, or data leaks, ensuring the security of AI-driven tools.
Who Would Benefit Most
Families
Families with children will benefit from the parental controls that allow kids to explore the web safely with time and content limits.
Heavy Internet Users
Individuals who frequently use the internet for banking, shopping, and social media will appreciate the enhanced security features that protect against phishing, identity theft, and other online threats.
Multi-Device Users
People who use multiple devices (PCs, Macs, smartphones, tablets) will find the multi-device protection particularly useful.
AI Application Users
Those who use AI applications will benefit from the additional layer of security that protects these applications from tampering and data leaks.
Overall Recommendation
Trend Micro Maximum Security is highly recommended for anyone seeking comprehensive and proactive protection against a wide range of cyber threats. Its ability to secure multiple devices, protect online transactions, and optimize performance makes it a versatile and effective security solution. The inclusion of a secure VPN and disc cleaning manager adds significant value, especially for those concerned about privacy and device performance.
Given its industry recognition for providing 100% protection against web threats and phishing scams, and its advanced AI-driven security mechanisms, Trend Micro Maximum Security is a reliable choice for ensuring digital safety across various devices and applications.