Essential Software For Your New PC

When purchasing a new computer you might wonder what software do I need to get started. This guide will help you with some of the decision making. There are many free choices for free software that you may need to get started.

1) Alternative Browsers: All PC’s come with Internet Explorer. While it’s an excellent browser there are other choices. I would recommend trying Firefox and Google Chrome. They are faster than Internet Explorer, provide better security and have wonderful extensions to pick from.

2) Download Java and Flash: All browsers need these two programs in order for you to get the full experience of the web. Most games you play online use java and nearly every video uses the flash player. Both of course are free and a must have.

3) Windows Live Essentials: This is also a must have free suite of programs from Microsoft. It comes with MSN Messenger, Photo Gallery, Mail (for email), Writer (for blogging), Movie Maker, Family Safety (to manage your kids safety online). Download

4) Picasa Photo Editor: This is a very powerful photo editor and photo organizer. Yes there are more powerful photo editors out there, but for a free program it gives you great features at a low low price. You can even share your pictures online as well. Download

5) Open Office Suite: If you don’t want to dish out the big bucks for Microsoft Office than Open Office is a great choice. It has a great word processor, spreadsheet program, and a program to create presentations. Both the word the processor and spreadsheet will open up most word and excel documents as well. Download

6) iTunes: Almost everyone out there has some form of iPod. iTunes is a must have for everyone that has an iPod. Even if you don’t have an iPod it’s a great program to organize your music library, create playlists, and listen to some great podcasts out there. Download