Last week I told you about Ninite.com for your new computer. I received several emails asking what other applications I would install on a new Windows computer.
My first "have to have" application is anti-virus software. I suggest initially what probably comes free with your new computer. However, after the free six or twelve month trial ends, get a free app. The one you get with your computer usually goes for a high annual fee. Download only one of these first: AVG or Avast!. These are the two many other geeks and I use. Search the sites for the free versions and only get them from those sites. Viruses may be included in them when they are downloaded elsewhere.
Do not install more than one antivirus app on your computer at a time or it could cause issues.
Next, I have a new recommendation, Malwarebytes. This will help your antivirus software keep you even safer. The free version is good. You need to remember to run it yourself every few days. Malware stands for malicious software that may not destroy things but can really mess with your computer. I almost guarantee if you install and run this on your old computer you will find you have hundreds of malware items present.
Now, go to Speed Test and see what actual speeds you are getting from your internet service provider. If you get less than you should call your provider and get their assistance to correct the issue. The speed can vary from hour-to-hour but should be close most of the time.
The next thing I suggest is something you used to have to pay a bundle for, Microsoft Office. Not any longer. For the average Office user you can create a new Outlook.com account or use your Hotmail.com account and use Office Online – for free. There are several ways to get to your office apps but I suggest onedrive.live.com to set up or login to your office products.
After typing like you did in your new free online Word application you notice that your typing could be improved if you used more than two fingers. To work on your typing skills and speed take a look at Typing Web and practice. You can improve your typing for free and maybe have some fun doing so.
Finally, you should just have some fun. If you like computer games login for free at Steam Powered. An account is free as are some of the games; however, some may have a onetime cost or possibly a monthly fee. I like the free, "Star Trek Online" where I am a commander of a Federation vessel.
If you want to pay for a game, set up a PayPal account. It is a very secure online payment system. I have used it for years and have never had a problem. I suggest anytime you tie your checking/savings account to anything online you create a separate account from your "home" account. This is just in case there is ever a security hack. They can only get a minimal amount of money and it will not affect paying your "real" bills.
Have a Happy 2015!
