Destiny Dawn Marie

The choices in software today can be overwhelming.  I have been actively testing and trying different software applications since the dawn of the public Internet in the early 90s and here is a starting point to make your life easier. I just got a new computer and decided to write this post on my top MUST have software programs when setting up a new computer. So here is my list. Click on any of the software logo’s to visit the software site.

1. One of the first things I do to a new computer is download Firefox for Internet browsing and set it  as my default browser.  I have tried most of the browsers available and have come to trust and use Firefox.  The stability of the browser, security features, ease of use, available plug-ins, and speed have put this software program at the top of my list.  There is very little learning curve involved the switchover to Firefox if you are using Internet Explorer.  When you install the program and will even help you import your bookmarks. Firefox is 100% free.

2. The next important item on my software need list is an e-mail client.  If you do not have an e-mail   account and are setting up your first e-mail account, I recommend Gmail.  Gmail loads quicker than Yahoo Mail and offers free POP access. POP is the technology that allows you to download your e-mail into a separate software program.  Because I use several e-mail addresses I depend on a software program to help me manage all of my mail. I used to use Outlook but became increasingly frustrated with losing my saved mail every time Microsoft office needed repaired, reinstalled, or upgraded.  I never could seemed to move my mail folders around successfully.  I finally found a  software program that was small undependable, had the ability to filter incoming mail, and even a built-in calendar just like Outlook.  I now use Thunderbird and it works like a charm.  If you use several computers as I do, the portable version of Thunderbird can be used from a USB, so that you can have your mail and contacts on any computer at any time. Both versions of Thunderbird are free.

3.  For anti-virus needs I have had really good luck with AVG free edition. On this one I must admit I have not tried many other available antivirus programs — because as long as its working why fix it?  I have been using AVG free on all of my computers for approximately 6 years without any problems.  I do recall buying a computer many years ago that had Norton antivirus installed and remember running into many problems with software update and installing new programs because they collided with the Norton and made all sorts of messes.

4. One program I couldn’t live without is my clipboard software program.  ClipMagic has been my little  buddy for years. ClipMagic is now freeware and has only gotten better. What the program does is extends the world of copy by saving everything you copy and allow to you to manage those tidbits of information for quick retrieval later. Ever copy an email address or website address only to forget where you got it from or need it again later and have to type it out again? This solves that and many other information handling problems. I use it for to do lists and store contact information. It is extremely easy to use right out from the start and flexible enough to handle advanced processes. And free …!

5. Then before I start surfing and using the Internet I have to have my Roboform.  I purchased through a form back when it was the only secure password keeper and form filler available.  I’ve been using it for at least six years maybe longer.  It has been the most trouble-free, time-saving, life-saving piece of software I’ve ever used.  It works exactly how it should all the time, every time.  In case you are asking what does it do? Roboform will save your passwords, fill out forms at the click of a button, manage multiple online identities, such as business and personal, and more.  One of the most helpful features of the program for me has been the ability to move my password collections easily from one computer to another.  They now offer a portable version as well.  You can also password protect your account so no one else using the computer can access websites using your passwords.  This makes it much easier to use and manage than the built-in password saving features the browsers offer.  This program is pure gold. There is a free and a $29 PRO version. I can’t tell you much about the free because I have been a PRO user for 7 years.

6. Last but not least when ever I set up a new computer I download the latest copy of VLC media player. This free little  gem will play any and all of your media. No codecs, no errors, no problems. Install and use. It has been my hassle free media player for years. I use it for music, video and movies.I have been able to play any and all kinds of video with VLC - from mp4 to ogg and from avi, wmv to DVD’s & it can even play Flash files (.FLV).  Just straight out of the box clean working media solution.

Now I am ready to safely surf the Internet, use e-mail, enjoy multi media and store saved information.  It takes less than 30 minutes to download and install the above programs and you will be trouble-free for a long time to come.  All of these programs have automatic updates when needed, are very secure, dependable, and trouble-free.  All have been around for a good while and earned my trust and highest recommendations.

Each one of these programs are simple to use for the novice, yet powerful enough and feature rich for the experienced computer user to enjoy.

Easy Links For Your Reference:

1. Firefox Browser = $0
2. Gmail & Thunderbird for eMail = $0
3. AVG Anti-Virus = $0
4. ClipMagic clipboard and information manager = $0
5. RoboForm form filler and password keeper = $0/free user - $29/PRO
6. VLC Media Player for all your media needs = $0

Total Cost - $0 - $29 !