The Best Free Software and Programs to Install on a New Laptop or Computer
When setting up a new laptop or computer, equipping it with the right software is crucial for productivity, security, and overall enjoyment.
Before you start installing programs and personalising a used computer or laptop, it’s important to perform some checks. There’s nothing worse than setting everything up only to discover a serious issue that requires returning the device.
This post is designed to help you ensure everything is in order before making the computer your own.
Overview
- OBS Studio
- Brave Browser
- Bitwarden – Password Safe
- LibreOffice
- VLC Media Player
- Thunderbird Email Software
- Proton VPN (Free Version)
- WinRAR
- Synology Drive and Desktop (if using a NAS)
- Canon Webcam Utility
- Inkscape
- GIMP
- Discord
- Zoom
- Microsoft Teams
- Audacity
- Use Email Drafts as an Easy Free Note Taker
I have bought a lot of computers over the years and I have compiled a list of the best free software and programs I like to use and set up. I hope that it will help you get started. None of these are sponsored I have used them and find them helpful most if not all of them have a free version. I will include a video to show how to install them in this article
OBS Studio
OBS Studio is a free and open-source software for video recording and live streaming. It’s highly customizable, allowing you to create professional-grade broadcasts and screen recordings with ease.
Website: https://obsproject.com/
Brave Browser
Brave Browser is a privacy-focused web browser that blocks ads and trackers by default. For added security, install the Bitwarden extension from the Brave Extension Store. Turn off all Brave settings to save logins and passwords and set the browser to delete everything on exit for maximum privacy.
Website: https://brave.com/
- Bitwarden Extension: https://chrome.google.com/webstore/detail/bitwarden-free-password-m/nngceckbapebfimnlniiiahkandclblb
Bitwarden – Password Safe
Bitwarden is a free, open-source password manager that securely stores your passwords and other sensitive information. It’s an essential tool for managing and protecting your online accounts.
Website: https://bitwarden.com/
LibreOffice
LibreOffice is a powerful open-source office productivity suite, and an excellent alternative to Microsoft Office. It includes programs for word processing, spreadsheets, presentations, and more, making it ideal for all your document needs.
Website: https://www.libreoffice.org/
VLC Media Player
VLC Media Player is a free, open-source multimedia player that supports nearly all video and audio file formats. It’s lightweight, easy to use, and an essential tool for any media enthusiast.
Website: https://www.videolan.org/vlc/
Thunderbird Email Software
Thunderbird is a free email client that offers a great alternative to Microsoft Outlook. It supports multiple email accounts, includes robust security features, and is highly customizable with various add-ons.
Website: https://www.thunderbird.net/
Proton VPN (Free Version)
Proton VPN offers a free, secure VPN service that helps you protect your privacy online and access content from different locations around the world.
Website: https://protonvpn.com/
WinRAR
WinRAR is a popular file compression tool that allows you to open, create, and manage zipped files. It’s essential for handling large files and sharing them efficiently.
Website: https://www.win-rar.com/
Synology Drive and Desktop (if using a NAS)
If you use a NAS (Network Attached Storage) device, Synology Drive and Synology Desktop are must-have tools. They allow you to synchronize, share, and back up your files across devices with ease.
Website: https://www.synology.com/en-us/dsm/feature/drive
Website: https://www.synology.com/en-global/dsm/packages/Drive
Canon Webcam Utility
Canon Webcam Utility allows you to use your Canon DSLR as a high-quality webcam. Perfect for those who want better video quality for streaming or video conferencing.
Website: https://www.usa.canon.com/internet/portal/us/home/support/self-help-center/eos-webcam-utility/
Inkscape
Inkscape is a free, open-source vector graphics editor, offering a powerful alternative to Adobe Illustrator. It’s perfect for creating and editing scalable vector images.
Website: https://inkscape.org/
GIMP
GIMP is a free, open-source alternative to Photoshop, providing a wide range of tools for image editing, retouching, and manipulation.
Website: https://www.gimp.org/
Discord
Discord is a free voice, video, and text communication platform popular among gamers and communities. It’s great for connecting with friends or collaborating on projects.
Website: https://discord.com/
Zoom
Zoom is a free video conferencing tool that has become essential for virtual meetings and webinars. It’s easy to use and widely supported across devices.
Website: https://zoom.us/
Microsoft Teams
Microsoft Teams is a collaboration platform that integrates chat, video meetings, file storage, and application integration. It’s a must-have for remote work and team collaboration.
Website: https://www.microsoft.com/en-us/microsoft-teams/group-chat-software
Audacity
Audacity is a free, open-source audio editing software. It’s powerful, user-friendly, and perfect for recording and editing podcasts, music, and other audio projects.
Website: https://www.audacityteam.org/
Use Email Drafts as an Easy Free Note Taker
One handy trick for quick note-taking is to use your email drafts. Simply start composing an email, jot down your notes, and close it without filling in the recipient’s email address. It will automatically save in your drafts, making it easy to revisit your ideas later.
Guide: https://www.makeuseof.com/tag/gmail-note-taking-tool-tips/
By installing these free programs, your new laptop or computer will be well-equipped to handle a wide range of tasks, from productivity and creativity to communication and security.
