I wasn't in a hurry to get the next version (the changes usually have a minimal impact on my usage of the program), but since there seems to be so MUCH concern about CNET, I did get the file from CNET and did the install. After answering the standard questions about where and how to install, I was offered an install of Google Chrome. Since I did not want it, I had to UNCHECK the box. The install then continued with no problem. If you already have Google Chrome, you may or may not see this step...I don't know. If you already have Google Chrome and fail to UNCHECK the box, it could potentially wipe out your current install leaving you with no bookmarks and all the settings returned to the defaults. Again...I don't know and I'm not going to find out. Anyone still having a cow about using CNET can use the link on the Irfanview page to OTHER DOWNLOAD SITES. I would expect the experience at these other sites would be exactly the same but I could be wrong so if you use them, you're on your own. I won't be using them and will have no comment on them. If you decide to install the additional plugins, you MUST close Irfanview first. The install will stop until you close Irfanview. Additionally, I went to the CNET site using Firefox with NoScript. This cuts down on the funny business that a lot of malicious sites throw at users with vulnerable browsers, particularly Internet Explorer. So if you go there with IE, I don't know what your experience will be. I can only tell you what my experience was. That was it...no strain no pain. This post was edited by azinoh on Thu, Jun 26, 14 at 6:28

This is what I would use...but that's just me. Here is a link that might be useful: 7 zip

I have used zamzar for years since it first came out and only had good results with it not sure why you don't want to use it. I personally would trust something I did NOT have to install on my pc more than a random program which could install malware along with it. Be very careful if you do pick one to install because funmoods has been hitting so many people from downloads.

Thanks ravencajun. It's on a site sent to me by a gal who is involved in the same business venture as I am. I first tried to access the video thru AOL then thru IE. I emailed the gal who sent me the link and she said it was 'safe' to download Codec. But truthfully? I trust you all here so much that I just feel better if I run it by this forum first. I'd put the url to the site I'm curious to watch that video from but I dont want to get in trouble for spamming. I'm not spamming, I'm a long time member, but it is an online shopping business so it would look bad if I put the link. How can I get the specific codec from the author? How can I tell if it's safe to download from that site? Thanks again~