If you have bought a new computer over the last 12 months from a large retailer, the computer may contain a 'bundle' of programs in addition to your hardware.
For example, I purchased a HP computer from a retail store. I purchased this particular model for one reason. If I need to completely re-install Windows and get up and running again on the Internet I can have it completed within 30 minutes. This is a feature of alot of Compaq and HP computers.
Yo may also find find bundled an Anti-virus program, an Office program, usually MS Office, and a bunch of 'Trial-ware' games.
But did you know you can get a whole bunch of different programs and for free ? You didn't ? GREAT !!!!
Here's a list of either, programs I use myself or have been recommended to me by colleagues or clients that are free to use. I will also provide a little blurb so yo know what the program does before you even download and try it.
Open Office - Collaborative and individual suite of Productivity programs
A free alternative to Microsoft Office. A suite of programs designed with word processing, spread sheeting, database creation, presentation software and more. It has compatibility with other Office suites, so for example if you use the Word Processing function you can save the file as a Microsoft Word document.
The other great feature is with the licensing you can freely use the program, share it with others, use it commercially and still install it on as many computers as you like.
Obtain it here - Open Office
Picasa - Photo Editing
Picasa is a program recommended to me by a client that allows you to find and organise your digital photos. It also provides editing and effect functions as well as a facility to help share your photos through email or on a website for others to view.
Obtain it here - Picasa
Windows Movie Maker - Video and DVD home video creation
A freely available program that you may already have and didn't know it. Available on computers with Windows XP Service Pack 2 and Windows Vista. The program can allow you to trim and edit video, insert slides, and create Title sheets. You can also import and edit sound.
Output files are created as Windows Media Video files (WMV) but other third party software can allow you to change the format and create playable DVD movies to store and play on DVD discs.
Don't have it ? Get the latest version here - Windows Movie Maker
Music Player - Play music, obtain music from your music cd collection
There are so many these days the number of new ones are on the increase daily. Most will play back MP3 format music, purchase music online, play music cds, rip your music cd's to create MP3's and some also have a facility to download updated information, like lyrics, Artist Title, Artist Album, Artist or Album pictures and may also have an equaliser.
Here are a few of the most popular
Winamp - Features : MP3 music player, Ipod sync, Internet radio, customisable skins, Asian language support. Free and purchasable versions available.
Itunes - From Apple Computing, one of the most downloaded today. Features: MP3 music player (tracks are converted to Apples proprietary AAC format) Ipod sync, Internet radio, online shop for music, video, music videos, tv shows, pod casts
Yahoo Music Player - MP3 music player, rip cd tracks, Internet radio, freely exchange music play lists with friends.
Free Games - Something to while away a lazy Sunday afternoon
Most sites are either games that need to be downloaded and installed on your computer or will actively play within your Internet browser (so no download required)
Free Games - Free puzzles, role play, shoot em up, simulation, card games, Internet and downloadable games.
Miniclip Free Games - Lots of family friendly games
Download Free Games - More family friendly puzzles, board games, chess games, guessing games.
Enjoy !
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