What Software Should I Put on My New Computer?

Patrick Burnett

Congratulations on your new computer! Whether it’s a PC or Mac, you’ve got a blank slate waiting for you to fill it with software that will help you get the most out of your machine.

But with so many options out there, it can be overwhelming to decide what software to install. In this article, we’ll explore some essential software that you should consider putting on your new computer.

Web Browsers

One of the first things you should do when you get a new computer is download a web browser. While some computers come with pre-installed browsers, they may not be the best option for your needs.

Some popular browsers include Google Chrome, Mozilla Firefox, and Microsoft Edge. Each browser has its own set of features and benefits, so it’s worth trying out a few to see which one works best for you.

Office Suite

If your new computer is for work or school, then an office suite is essential. Microsoft Office is the most popular office suite, but there are free alternatives such as LibreOffice and OpenOffice that offer similar functionality. These suites include word processing programs like Microsoft Word or LibreOffice Writer, spreadsheet programs like Microsoft Excel or LibreOffice Calc, and presentation programs like Microsoft PowerPoint or LibreOffice Impress.

Media Players

Whether you’re listening to music or watching videos, having a reliable media player is important. Windows Media Player comes pre-installed on many PCs but there are other options available such as VLC Media Player and iTunes that offer additional features.

Antivirus Software

Protecting your computer from viruses and malware is crucial in today’s digital age. While Windows Defender comes pre-installed in Windows 10 and offers basic protection against viruses and malware, it may not be enough for some users. Paid antivirus software such as Norton Antivirus or McAfee Antivirus offer more robust protection and additional features like anti-phishing and anti-spam.

Cloud Storage

Cloud storage services like Google Drive, Dropbox, and OneDrive allow you to store your files online so you can access them from anywhere. These services also offer automatic backups and file syncing across multiple devices. Some cloud storage services offer a limited amount of free storage, while others require a paid subscription for more storage.

Image Editing Software

If you’re into photography or graphic design, then having an image editing software is a must. Adobe Photoshop is the most popular image editing software but it comes with a steep price tag. Free alternatives such as GIMP or Paint.NET offer similar functionality but with a smaller learning curve.

Final Thoughts

These are just some of the essential software that you should consider installing on your new computer. Of course, your needs may vary depending on what you plan to use your computer for. Take some time to explore different options and find the software that works best for you.