If you’ve just set up a new PC, choosing the right software can significantly enhance your computing experience. In this post, we’ll cover the top 15 essential and completely free software you need for a new PC. These picks range from browsers and antivirus programs to file management and system optimization tools. Whether you’re using Windows, Mac, or Linux, there’s something here for everyone.
Key Takeaways
- Security First: Start with a free antivirus like Bitdefender and VPN software like GrotonVPN to ensure your online safety.
- Productivity Essentials: Tools like OnlyOffice for document editing and Ayomi Backupper for backups are crucial for efficient and safe work.
- Media and File Management: Media Player Classic for videos and 7zip for file compression are must-haves for everyday tasks.
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1. Web Browser: Mozilla Firefox
Mozilla Firefox is one of the best free web browsers available. It runs on its Quantum engine, not Chromium, making it a unique alternative to popular browsers like Google Chrome. Firefox is known for its speed, security, and privacy features. Available across multiple platforms, it’s an excellent first download for any new PC.
2. Email & Calendar App: Betterbird
Betterbird is a powerful alternative to Mozilla Thunderbird, a well-known email client. Developed by Thunderbird’s former maintainer, Betterbird adds numerous features and improvements, including a message preview pane that can be toggled with the F8 key. Its intuitive interface and cross-platform availability make it a solid choice for email management.
3. Antivirus Software: Bitdefender Antivirus Free
Bitdefender Antivirus Free is an essential download for Windows users. It offers robust protection against viruses, malware, and online threats with real-time protection and advanced threat defense. While some features require a paid upgrade, the free version provides ample security for most users.
4. VPN: ProtonVPN Free
For secure and private browsing, ProtonVPN Free is a fantastic choice. It connects to servers in three different countries without bandwidth limits, keeps no logs, and is protected by Swiss privacy laws. ProtonVPN’s free version is also ad-free and available on all major operating systems, making it a must-have for privacy-conscious users.
5. File Archiver: 7-Zip
7-Zip is a trusted name in file compression, offering support for a variety of formats, including its own 7Z format. Integrated into the Windows shell menu, 7-Zip is user-friendly and essential for handling compressed files on your PC. Although it’s only officially available for Windows, unofficial ports are available for macOS and Linux.
6. Music Player: AIMP
AIMP is a lightweight and powerful audio player for PCs, featuring built-in tools like an audio file converter and tag editor. It also supports custom skins, which allows for personalization. Available on Windows, Linux, and Android, AIMP is perfect for anyone looking for a versatile music player.
7. Video Player: Media Player Classic Black Edition
Media Player Classic Black Edition is a go-to choice for video playback. This free, open-source software is based on the original Media Player Classic and comes with additional features like ISO file support and the ability to capture video frames. Lightweight and resource-efficient, it’s a must-have for Windows and Linux users.
8. Image Viewer: XnViewMP
XnViewMP is an all-in-one image viewer, editor, and converter. With support for all major graphic formats, it’s ideal for basic photo editing tasks like resizing, retouching, and color adjustments. The tabbed interface and full-screen viewing options make it a solid choice for organizing and viewing images on Windows, Mac, and Linux.
9. Office Suite: ONLYOFFICE
ONLYOFFICE Desktop Editors is a free and fully compatible alternative to Microsoft Office. It includes tools for creating and editing text documents, spreadsheets, and presentations. Its interface closely resembles Microsoft Office, making it an easy transition for new users. ONLYOFFICE is available on all major platforms, making it a strong contender for productivity software on your new PC.
10. Text & Source Code Editor: Notepad++
Notepad++ is a popular text and source code editor for Windows users. Supporting tabbed editing and a wide range of programming languages, it’s perfect for both simple text editing and coding. With features like dark mode and extensive customization, it’s a powerful upgrade from the basic Windows Notepad.
11. PDF Viewer: Sumatra PDF
Sumatra PDF is a lightweight and fast PDF viewer that also supports ebook formats. While it has a simple interface, it’s known for its speed, making it a popular alternative to heavier PDF viewers like Adobe Reader. Sumatra is a great pick for those who need a no-frills, efficient PDF viewer.
12. PDF Editor: PicoPDF PDF Editor
For more advanced PDF tasks, PicoPDF PDF Editor is an excellent free tool. It allows you to add text and images, encrypt files with a password, and even perform OCR to convert scanned documents into editable text. Pico PDF is ideal for editing and managing PDFs on Windows.
13. Backup & Restore Software: AOMEI Backupper Standard
AOMEI Backupper Standard offers robust backup and restore options, crucial for safeguarding your files. You can schedule regular backups to external media or cloud storage, ensuring that your important data is protected. Although it’s only available for Windows, it’s a top choice for keeping your files safe.
14. System Maintenance Software: Glary Utilities
Glary Utilities is a comprehensive system maintenance tool that helps optimize your PC’s performance. With over 20 tools included, Glary Utilities makes it easy to clean up and speed up your computer. Its one-click maintenance feature is perfect for beginners, while advanced users can take advantage of its extensive toolset.
15. Remote Access Software: AnyDesk
AnyDesk is a fast and secure remote desktop application, allowing you to connect to other devices and control them remotely. With features like file transfer and VPN functionality, AnyDesk is a must-have for those who need remote access to their PC. It’s available on a wide range of platforms, making it versatile and easy to use.
Conclusion
These 15 free software tools cover everything you need for your new PC, from basic web browsing and email to system maintenance and backup solutions. By downloading and installing these essential programs, you can ensure that your PC is equipped for anything, whether you’re focused on productivity, security, or media consumption.
FAQs
1. What is the best free antivirus software for Windows?
Bitdefender Antivirus Free is widely considered one of the best free antivirus options for Windows, offering real-time protection and advanced threat defense.
2. Is Mozilla Firefox better than Google Chrome?
Mozilla Firefox is a great alternative to Google Chrome, especially if you value privacy and security. It’s built on the Quantum engine, which isn’t based on Chromium, giving it a unique edge.
3. What is the easiest remote desktop software to use?
AnyDesk is highly recommended for its ease of use, even for beginners. It offers fast and secure remote access, file transfer, and VPN functionality.
4. How can I protect my privacy online for free?
Using GrotonVPN Free is an excellent way to protect your privacy online. It’s free, has no bandwidth limits, and doesn’t keep logs of your online activity.
5. What’s the best alternative to Microsoft Office?
OnlyOffice is a powerful and free alternative to Microsoft Office, compatible with all major MS Office file formats.
