[Suggestion 5][Place cTrader Executable in Program Files]
[Suggestion 5][Place cTrader Executable in Program Files]
03 Oct 2024, 15:51
Hi,
I noticed that the cTrader Desktop executable file is located in C:\Users\[User]\AppData\Local\Spotware\cTrader\[]\, instead of the standard location under C:\Program Files\ or C:\Program Files (x86)\.
This structure contrasts with other trading platforms like MetaTrader 5, which follows a more common approach by separating critical files (read-only) in Program Files and user-modifiable files in AppData.
This standard separation ensures stability, as critical files remain protected, while dynamic files are stored in AppData, allowing users to personalize their experience without affecting essential platform components.
It would be ideal if cTrader Desktop followed a similar structure to improve consistency and system protection.
If this suggestion will not be considered, could you explain why ?
Thank you !
Replies
R0bot
04 Oct 2024, 16:17
( Updated at: 04 Oct 2024, 16:19 )
PanagiotisCharalampous said:
Before answering your question, can you please provide a practical example of a problem you face with the existing structure?
Currently, I haven't encountered any issues with the cTrader Desktop executable file being located in AppData.
I believe in preventing potential problems rather than only reacting when an issue arises.
By storing critical files like the executable in Program Files, I think it adds an extra layer of protection and reduces the likelihood of unauthorized modifications, ensuring greater stability and security for the application in the long term.
@R0bot
PanagiotisCharalampous
05 Oct 2024, 06:33
RE: [Suggestion 5][Place cTrader Executable in Program Files]
R0bot said:
PanagiotisCharalampous said:
Before answering your question, can you please provide a practical example of a problem you face with the existing structure?
Currently, I haven't encountered any issues with the cTrader Desktop executable file being located in
AppData.I believe in preventing potential problems rather than only reacting when an issue arises.
By storing critical files like the executable in
Program Files, I think it adds an extra layer of protection and reduces the likelihood of unauthorized modifications, ensuring greater stability and security for the application in the long term.
Can you think of such a potential problem? Because I cannot think of any. The team will not proceed to any modifications without a solid reason.
@PanagiotisCharalampous
R0bot
05 Oct 2024, 14:43
( Updated at: 07 Oct 2024, 05:31 )
PanagiotisCharalampous said:
Can you think of such a potential problem? Because I cannot think of any. The team will not proceed to any modifications without a solid reason.
- Shouldn't this question ideally be addressed by a cybersecurity expert, who could provide an in-depth analysis of the potential risks associated with storing executable files in AppData versus Program Files?
2. For example:
2.1 The Program Files directory is for storing a program's read-only files, such as executable (.exe) files, acording to this article.
The AppData (ApplicationData) directory is for storing application-specific data related to the user, according to this article.
Do you agree with these two statements ?
2.1 I noticed that Visual Studio and MetaTrader 5 applications are installed in Program Files.
Isn't this a sufficient reason for cTrader Desktop to follow the same standard practice ?
2.2 You can read this article, which begins with “When malware infects a Windows machine, its first stop is usually the AppData folder”.
As a regular trader, this does not make me feel comfortable.
What is your opinion on the article ?
2.3 Given that cTrader Desktop is often downloaded from the broker's website, which means it is a customized version, and that it's installed in AppData instead of Program Files, how does Spotware ensure that brokers cannot modify the software in ways that could negatively impact the trader ?
3. From Spotware's perspective: What's the solid reason why cTrader Desktop is installed in AppData instead of Program Files ?
@R0bot
PanagiotisCharalampous
07 Oct 2024, 05:45
Hi there,
The reason is that cTrader used to use ClickOnce for installation. The default path for installation of ClickOnce applications is C:\Users\[User]\AppData\ for security reasons. So if Microsoft, the developer of the OS and ClickOnce does not see a problem with installing applications in that folder, I don't see either.
Best regards,
Panagiotis
@PanagiotisCharalampous
PanagiotisCharalampous
04 Oct 2024, 05:41
Hi there,
Before answering your question, can you please provide a practical example of a problem you face with the existing structure?
Best regards,
Panagiotis
@PanagiotisCharalampous