IrfanView By Irfan Skiljan: Should I Remove It?

When it comes to image viewing and editing software, IrfanView by Irfan Skiljan is a name that often comes up. With its long-standing reputation and wide range of features, it has become a popular choice among users. However, as with any software, there may be reasons why you would consider removing it from your system. In this article, we will explore what IrfanView is, its key features, potential drawbacks, and whether or not you should remove it from your computer.

What is IrfanView?

IrfanView is a free and lightweight image viewer and editor developed by Irfan Skiljan. It was first released in 1996 and has since gained a loyal user base due to its simplicity and versatility. The software supports a wide range of image formats, including popular ones like JPEG, PNG, GIF, and TIFF, making it suitable for both casual users and professionals.

One of the standout features of IrfanView is its ability to handle batch processing, allowing users to perform actions on multiple images simultaneously. This can be particularly useful when resizing, converting, or renaming a large number of images. Additionally, IrfanView offers basic editing tools such as cropping, rotating, and adjusting brightness and contrast.

Key Features of IrfanView

IrfanView offers a plethora of features that make it a versatile image viewer and editor. Some of its key features include:

Support for a wide range of image formats, including RAW files from various camera manufacturers.
Ability to view and play multimedia files, such as videos and audio files.
Support for plugins, allowing users to extend the functionality of the software.
Advanced batch processing capabilities for efficient image manipulation.
Integration with external editing software, such as Adobe Photoshop, for seamless workflow.
Ability to create slideshows and screensavers from selected images.
Support for capturing screenshots and scanning documents directly from within the software.

Should I Remove IrfanView?

While IrfanView offers a range of useful features, there may be instances where you would consider removing it from your computer. Here are a few scenarios where removing IrfanView might be appropriate:

1. Limited Image Editing Needs

If you primarily use your computer for basic image viewing and have minimal image editing needs, you may find that the built-in image viewer on your operating system is sufficient. Removing IrfanView can help declutter your system and free up valuable storage space.

2. Alternative Software Preferences

There are numerous image viewing and editing software options available, each with its own set of features and user interface. If you have found an alternative software that better suits your preferences and workflow, you may choose to remove IrfanView to avoid redundancy and streamline your software collection.

3. Security Concerns

While IrfanView itself is not known to be malicious, it is always important to prioritize the security of your computer. If you suspect that IrfanView or any associated plugins may have been compromised or are causing security vulnerabilities, it is advisable to remove the software and perform a thorough malware scan using Malwarebytes Free or a similar trusted antivirus program.

Conclusion

IrfanView by Irfan Skiljan is a powerful and versatile image viewer and editor that has gained popularity among users over the years. Its wide range of features, support for various image formats, and batch processing capabilities make it a valuable tool for both casual users and professionals.

However, whether or not you should remove IrfanView ultimately depends on your specific needs and preferences. If you have limited image editing needs, prefer alternative software, or have security concerns, removing IrfanView may be a viable option.

Before removing any software, it is always recommended to back up your important files and perform a thorough malware scan using Malwarebytes Free or a trusted antivirus program to ensure the security of your system.

Ultimately, the decision to remove IrfanView should be based on your individual requirements and circumstances. Consider evaluating your image editing needs, exploring alternative software options, and prioritizing the security of your computer to make an informed decision.

10 Rules to Avoid Online Scams

Here are 10 practical safety rules to help you avoid malware, online shopping scams, crypto scams, and other online fraud. Each tip includes a quick “if you already got hit” action.

Stop and verify before you click, log in, download, or pay.

Most scams win by creating urgency. Verify using a trusted method: type the website address yourself, use the official app, or call a known number (not the one in the message).

If you already clicked: close the page, do not enter passwords, and run a malware scan.
Keep your operating system, browser, and apps updated.

Updates patch security holes used by malware and malicious ads. Turn on automatic updates where possible.

If you saw a scary “update now” pop-up: close it and update only through your device settings or the official app store.
Use layered protection: antivirus plus an ad blocker.

Antivirus helps block malware. An ad blocker reduces scam redirects, phishing pages, and malvertising.

If your browser is acting weird: remove unknown extensions, reset the browser, then run a full scan.
Install apps, software, and extensions only from official sources.

Avoid cracked software, “keygens,” and random downloads. During installs, choose Custom/Advanced and decline bundled offers you do not recognize.

If you already installed something suspicious: uninstall it, restart, and scan again.
Treat links and attachments as untrusted by default.

Phishing often impersonates delivery services, banks, and popular brands. If it is unexpected, do not open attachments or log in through the message.

If you entered credentials: change the password immediately and enable 2FA.
Shop safely: research the store, then pay with protection.

Be cautious with brand-new stores, “closing sale” stories, and prices that make no sense. Prefer credit cards or PayPal for dispute options. Avoid wire transfers, gift cards, and crypto payments.

If you already paid: contact your card issuer or PayPal quickly to dispute the transaction.
Crypto rule: never pay a “fee” to withdraw or recover money.

Common patterns include fake profits, then “tax,” “gas,” or “verification” fees. Another is a “recovery agent” who demands upfront crypto.

If you already sent crypto: stop paying, save evidence (wallet addresses, TXIDs, chats), and report the scam to the platform used.
Secure your accounts with unique passwords and 2FA (start with email).

Use a password manager and unique passwords for every account. Enable 2FA using an authenticator app when possible.

If you suspect an account takeover: change passwords, sign out of all devices, and review recent logins and recovery settings.
Back up important files and keep one backup offline.

Backups protect you from ransomware and device failure. Keep at least one backup on an external drive that is not always connected.

If you suspect infection: do not connect backup drives until the system is clean.
If you think you are a victim: stop losses, document evidence, and escalate fast.

Move quickly. Speed matters for disputes, account recovery, and limiting damage.
- Stop payments and contact: do not send more money or respond to the scammer.
- Call your bank or card issuer: block transactions, replace the card if needed, and start a dispute or chargeback.
- Secure your email first: change the email password, enable 2FA, and remove unfamiliar recovery options.
- Secure other accounts: change passwords, enable 2FA, and log out of all sessions.
- Scan your device: remove suspicious apps or extensions, then run a full malware scan.
- Save evidence: screenshots, emails, order pages, tracking pages, wallet addresses, TXIDs, and chat logs.
- Report it: to the payment provider, marketplace, social platform, exchange, or wallet service involved.

These rules are intentionally simple. Most online losses happen when decisions are rushed. Slow down, verify independently, and use payment methods and account controls that give you recourse.

IrfanView by Irfan Skiljan: Should I Remove It?