Back-up to Zip

[JEB]

Hi,

For some time now I have been meaning to ask about "Back-up to Zip". What happened to that option?

Has it been replaced by "Safe Executable File for Internet"? If so or not for that matter, what does this facility offer?

Thanks

John

[Barry Beckham]

Its in the file menu John

[Lin Evans]

Hi John,

Click on "FIle" (upper left on toolbar) then on "Create Backup in Zip).

The safe executable file for internet feature creates a digitally signed executable file and a data file and combines them both in a single zipped archive. The reason anti-virus software and various Window features are highly "suspicious" of executable files created by products like PTE or other programs which create executable code is that this code is not digitally signed. All major software companies which distribute their products have executable files - lots of them in fact. But these files are exactly alike in every case and they are recognized by a digital signature which is contained as a "reference" which is available to the OS and to various anti-virus companies. If the executable code does not have this digital signature, then it's highly suspect.

Since each executable file produced by pte and other such programs are different in content, there is no way to digitally sign them so that they pass muster by appropriate testing methods. To avoid this issue, PTE produces a digitally signed executable portion and a non-executable data file. The exe file runs the data file and everything works identically except the data in not contained in the executable portion. This means that the exe file can be digitally signed and "recognized" as safe by Windows and anti-virus software by comparing the characteristics of the exe part with the reference in the lookup table. In short, it's a way to send out your exe files so they will be deemed acceptable not only to Windows but to various anti-threat software.

Best regards,

Lin

[JEB]

Thanks Gentlemen,

I should have looked there.

Lin, thanks for your usual detailed explanation.

Cheers

John