|
Here we list the most popular software in use across the world, for which there is a FREE version available
to download.
Caveat No.1 - These are purely personal recommendations and you follow them at your own risk.
Caveat No.2 - The software listed below is very standard and has been downloaded by millions of people. However,
installing a lot of new software can cause your computer system to become unstable. We suggest that
you install one program at a time to see if it has any adverse effects, and uninstall it should this occur.
Security
Antivir
Cost-free anti-virus protection. It's German and it works, although to be really safe we recommend buying
fully-featured anti-virus software.
CWShredder
You may not have heard of 'Cool Web Search', but you do not want it on your machine. This little tool for
removing it is essential, so don't delay.
Hijack This
From the same chap who created CWShredder, this program scans your system for threats. It's aimed at advanced
users but the website linked to above gives a simplified way to use it as well as the download. Very highly recommended if you think
you may have a problem.
Lavasoft Adaware Personal
Ad-Aware Personal provides advanced protection from known data-mining, aggressive advertising, Trojans, dialers,
malware, browser hijackers, and tracking components.
Mailwasher
Protect your inbox with this free and reliable spam blocker.
Windows Firewall
This comes built in to WindowsXP.
Zone Alarm Firewall
Got a broadband connection? If you are using a USB modem (rather than a router) to connect then you certainly
need some firewall protection.
Essential
Adobe Reader
Required to open and read documents in .pdf format.
Flash media player
For viewing websites built using Macromedia's Flash technology.
Quicktime Alternative media player
For viewing video created using Apple Quicktime, but without having to download the official player.
Real Alternative
Real Alternative will allow you to play RealMedia files, such as on the BBC site, without having to install
the system-fiddling resource-gobbling RealPlayer.
Shockwave media player
For viewing movies, cartoons and so forth built using shockwave technology.
WinAmp media player
A very popular music player.
Winzip
Allows you to open and create compressed .zip files.
Desirable
Firefox Web Browser
An open-source browser with better securiy than Internet Explorer. Allows you to import your IE bookmarks.
Opera Web Browser
Another web browser that beats IE into a cocked hat.
Thunderbird Email Client
The sister application to Firefox. Has fewer bells and
whistles than Outlook (though more than Outlook Express) but is more secure and simpler to use.
Allows you to import all of your Outlook or Outlook Express mail folders etc.
Useful
Filezilla
One of many good clients for FTPing files down to your computer or up to your website.
GNU Privacy Guard
GnuPG is a tool for secure communication and data storage. It can be used to encrypt data and to create
digital signatures.
Open Office
Free non-Microsoft office suite for all computer platforms.
|
