I have purchased a new PC. Now what? (Part A)
If you’ve just bought a new computer and don’t know how to connect the monitor, keyboard and other parts to your PC, read my article here. If your computer doesn’t have the OS preinstalled, and you’ve a valid Windows 10 license, read my article on how to install Windows 10 here.
Now, even though Windows 10 already has the appropriate software for several different tasks you’d like to perform with your computer, wherein some are already installed and others are available via the Windows store, there are many third-party programs worth mentioning.
Let’s see some useful program categories.
Antivirus/Antimalware
It’s the kind of software that tries to protect your computer from malicious attacks, and it must have one active at all times. Windows already uses its own “Windows Defender” program for this purpose. However, a few of other free choices are Comodo Internet Security (antivirus and firewall), Avira free, Avast free, Kaspersky free, Malwarebytes (antimalware), and so on.
Backup Software
This is a very crucial type of software which, many times, is overlooked, from beginners to experienced users. Moreover, you must protect your files from accidental deletion or other problems such as file corruption and hard disk failure. Backup software allows you to make regular copies of your files on another medium (hard disk) or at another location (cloud storage). To this end, you can use Windows 10 “File History” or one of the following free programs: EaseUS Todo Backup, Cobian Backup, FBackup, Paragon Backup & Recovery Free. Of course, there are commercial (paid) backup software as well. However, for home use, the aforementioned programs will suffice.
Office Suite
This is a bundle of applications that includes word processor, spreadsheet, presentation, database and a couple of other programs that vary, depending on the company that created a specific suite. The most well-known one among these is MS Office. Unfortunately, you’ve to buy it separately from the Windows 10 OS. It comes in different editions and prices. However, two reputed free choices are Apache OpenOffice and LibreOffice. Cloud options such as Office365 (paid) and Google suite (Docs, Sheets and Slides) are also available.
Photo editing software
If you want to edit your photos, use effects, add text or merge them, to develop artistic creations, you’ll need such kind of application. “Photos” is pre-installed in Windows 10, so you can use it right away. A few other free choices are GIMP, a very robust application, Paint.NET and Darktable.
To be continued . . .
To read the second part of this article, click here.
