Apps that Everyone Should Install Day One

Over the years I've come across many useful applications but only been a handful I can't imagine living without. Every time I obtain a new computer I install these, day one. This is what I consider the best of the best. Plus, they're all free!



1) Firefox

Undoubtedly the best web browser available. With a gigantic resource of user made plugins, it is amazing what you can do to make this browser your own. It renders pages quickly, is secure, and generally gets the job done doing the job how you want it too. Forget IE, it's way too slow. Try this browser, you won't believe the difference.
Works on Windows, Mac, and Linux.
http://www.firefox.com

2) Handbrake
Ever needed to convert a video? You probably have searched the internet endlessly trying to find the right program to get just the format you need. Handbrake can rip DVDs and convert them too that special format. Need the video to work with your iPod? No problem. Need it too work with your Zune? Covered. Just about every popular device is covered. Plus, you can customize the settings getting the perfect format for your needs.
Works on Windows, Mac, and Linux
http://handbrake.fr/

3) WinRAR
WinRAR will handle zip, rar, iso, and any other type of compressed file you can imagine. This program has saved me too many times to count. Stop worrying if you have the right program to open this type of file, WinRAR can do it! Plus, it looks nice. ;)
Only Windows
http://www.rarlab.com/
If you don't like being nagged to buy the full version you might want to try 7zip.

4) Microsoft Security Essentials
Who better to protect your computer than the people who made the operating system? This dandy program will protect you from all kinds of harm on the internet. It is extremely fast and not too complicated. Making sure not to take too much memory, this program will not slow you down.
Only Windows
http://www.microsoft.com/Security_Essentials/

5) CCleaner

If you're running low on memory CCleaner can help you. It will delete all those useless files that your computer can accumulate over time. If you computer is acting fidgety try using its registry cleaner? It will find most problems and fix it for you. Have a stubborn program that won't uninstall? CCleaner can usually fix that too. It's an all-round Crap Cleaner.
Only Window
http://www.ccleaner.com/

6) Process Lasso
Process Lasso will make sure your computer never comes to a complete stand still. The program will punish naughty programs that want to kidnap your CPU to complete their tasks. (i.e. You're using Handbrake to convert a video and your computer begins acting sluggish) This program doesn't make your computer faster, but more responsive. I absolutely love it!
Only Windows
http://www.bitsum.com/prolasso.php

7) IMGBurn
Have you ever wanted to burn an iso to a CD? Burn files to a CD? Burn a music CD? Burn a Blu-Ray DVD? How about Burn a CD/DVD? IMGBurn can do all of these things and more. It's simply the best, and most powerful free CD burning software available. I can't live without this one.
Only Windows
http://www.imgburn.com/

8) OpenOffice
Can't afford Microsoft Office? You might like Open Office. It can perform all of the same tasks and is free. Hands down the best free Office suite available today.
Works on Windows, Mac, and Linux
http://www.openoffice.org/

Now that I have shown you all of these great programs, you're going to have to go to each individual website and install every last one manually, correct? Nope. Try www.ninite.com simply check each app you want and download a single file. The program will install every app you choose and remove the crapware. There are a couple apps I recommend that are not on the site but most of it is there.

I hope these suggestions make your life easier and less expensive.