A couple of weeks ago, I wrote two articles on what to look for when buying a new computer. People emailed asking what applications I suggest they install on a new computer once they get one. So, I have picked 15 apps that I think you should consider installing on your new, or existing, computer. These are in alphabetical order, so do not read any importance into them. I will say if it starts with “Google” I highly recommend them.
1. 7-Zip (7-zip.org)
7-Zip is a free file archiver, a utility used to place groups of files within compressed containers known as “archives”. 7-zip was released in 1999. It can work with many different compressed formats including ZIP, RAR, CAB, GZIP, BZIP2, TAR, and ARJ. The most popular is the ZIP file which is most likely the only one you will use. 7-Zip can be useful for reducing the size of large files or groups of files, such as software packages, documents, or multimedia files. Windows includes a compression app by default but in my opinion, 7-Zip is a better option.
2. BitWarden (bitwarden.com)
BitWarden is a free and open-source password manager that helps you keep your passwords safe and organized. It is very good and one of my “must haves” for security. I even pay for it, whoo-hoo, how much does that say I like it?! It is a great way to create strong, unique passwords for all of your online accounts, and it makes it easy to log in to them without having to remember them; right from your browser. It really improves your online security, conveniently creating, and keeping your passwords safe. It is easy to use and set up, and available on all major platforms, i.e., phones, tablets, etc.
3. Flipboard (flipboard.com)
Flipboard is a mobile app and/or website that lets you create and share personalized magazines. They are made of articles, images, videos, and other content that interest you. You pick out the topics that you want to see. You can also follow topics and people that interest you, and it will produce a list of fresh content for you to read. I use it personally to stay informed on the latest news and trends in technology that allow me to figure out what is going on. Also, what I may want to write about that may interest you.
4. Google Chrome (google.com/chrome)
If you are not already using it since Google Chrome is already being used by about 69% of the world, you should. It works on any system and was released by Google in 2008. Versions were later released for Linux, macOS, iOS, and also for Android phones, where it is the default browser. Chrome is known for its ease of use. Chrome also has a wide range of features. It is my favorite too, with Firefox running a close second.
5. Google Workspace (Gmail.com or any other Google App)
Google Workspace is a suite of productivity and collaboration tools for businesses and organizations of all sizes. It includes Gmail for business email, Google Calendar, Google Meet for video conferencing, Google Drive for cloud storage, and a variety of other tools for creating and sharing documents, spreadsheets, presentations, and more. Google Workspace offers a free version for individuals and small teams, as well as paid plans with more features and storage capacity. Workspace includes Google Drive, Keep and many other useful apps.
More to come next week, make sure you come back!
