Software Essentials

June 20, 2007

Good software is hard to find, let alone good and *free* software. This is a short list of what I've found to be the best free and open source software available.

  1. Firefox

    For Internet browsing, this is a must have. Or at least replacing Internet Explorer is a must. Be a lot safer from trojans and spyware when using this. It's just a simple download and install.

  2. Thunderbird

    Another great product from the same makers of Firefox, this is an amazing replacement for Outlook. News of a thousand crashed systems caused by a worm from previous years should be enough reason to replace the vulnerable Outlook and Outlook Express.

  3. Open Office

    A full featured office suite. Do your word processing, spreadsheets, presentations, databases and vector drawings with this free download.

  4. Avira PersonalEdition Classic

    This free German made antivirus prevents you from viruses, trojans, worms, rootkits. Eliminates phishing and dialers. It has active scanning feature so you are protected on the fly while working. Remember to update your Primary Antivirus for optimum detection and protection.

  5. ClamWin

    This free opensource antivirus is based on ClamAV (www.clamav.net) that protects unix/linux email gateways from virus, worms and trojans. ClamWin is a passive antivirus, thus it serves as a auxiliary and confirmatory antivirus that compliments your primary active antivirus. Since this is a passive antivirus you must manually scan the questionable file, folder or partition for detection and elimination of viruses, worms and trojans. Remember to update your Antivirus for optimum detection and protection.

  6. AdAware Free

    In combination of the replacement of Microsoft's Internet Explorer to Mozilla Firefox, the an antispyware program is needed for the protection of your home and business machines. Lavasoft's AdAware free antispyware program assures you protection from undesired advertisments, identity theft, information theft that may compromise your personal or business security. It is wise to update AdAware definitions before scanning your computer.

  7. 7z

    This is a free file archiver and extractor. Replace your WinZip trial version or your integrated file extractor of windows XP with this full feature open-sourced application. Compress your file for distribution or storage with its own 7z format. Extract files compressed from RAR, CAB, ISO, ARJ, LZH, CHM, Z, CPIO, RPM, DEB and NSIS.

  8. Meebo

    Bookmark your Firefox browser to www.meebo.com. This web based messaging application enables you to use your existing AIM, Google Talk, Yahoo Messenger, and MSN Messenger without installing the Messenger Software. An ideal messenger software for business.

  9. ZoneAlarm

    Retire your built-in windows firewall with Checkpoint software's Zonealarm. This features a more advanced permission based firewall for your home and small business computers. A firewall is must have for complete computer security.