Advanced Task Scheduler

Advanced Task Scheduler is an excellent Automation tool in the System Utilities category developed by Southsoftware.com. The program's latest version, 10.0.0.2407, offers robust features for scheduling and automating a host of tasks on Windows XP, Vista, 7, 8, 10, and 11. Users can efficiently set the program to automatically run applications, terminate processes, manage dial-up connections, and even download or upload files. Additionally, it provides the convenience of running Perl and Python scripts, as well as SQL database operations.

The installation package includes several executable files, namely advscheduler_admin.exe, advscheduler.exe, advscheduler_service.exe, atsbroker.exe, and Scheduler.exe. These files together occupy a file size of 41.7 MB. The application also boasts a history of previous versions, notably 6.1, 6.0, and 5.1, underscoring its evolution and enhancement over time.

Among its standout features, Advanced Task Scheduler supports a wide variety of tasks such as launching programs, opening documents, accessing Internet pages, and providing pop-up reminders. It also can play sounds, shut down or restart the computer, and manage dial-up connections automatically. Moreover, it features flexible scheduling tools that allow users to run tasks once, every minute, hour, day, month, or year, and even after system events such as a hot key press or computer idle.

For those seeking more advanced capabilities, Advanced Task Scheduler is also available in a Professional edition, which includes features like hibernate/standby, passwordless authorization, and email logging.

In terms of pros:

• Multi-functional capabilities: It can handle a wide range of tasks from file operations to running scripts and managing network connections.
• Flexible scheduling options: Allows for detailed customizations based on time or specific system events.
• Advanced features in Pro edition: Includes features such as email logging and passwordless authorization.

Cons:

• File size: At 41.7 MB, it might be considered somewhat large for a utility tool.
• Learning curve: Some users might find the range of features and settings complex to navigate initially.

Overall, Advanced Task Scheduler is a powerful tool for users looking to automate tasks on their Windows PC. It's particularly beneficial for those who need a comprehensive scheduling utility that goes beyond the basics, and being free to try makes it an accessible option.

You may want to check out more software, such as Advanced Task Scheduler Network, Advanced Task Scheduler Professional or Solway's Task Scheduler, which might be similar to Advanced Task Scheduler.