I just got a new laptop (this Toshiba, if you are curious) and as such, have a blank slate for new software to install. In case it’s helpful, here’s what I put on any new PC:
System Tools:
- Daemon Tools – No, not for pirated software. I have, over the years, lost or damaged a lot of game discs. I end up having to download a replacement, and this lets the computer read it as if it were the real deal. Also nice if you want to leave your discs at home while travelling but still have access to the software.
- Avast! – Everyone needs anti-virus software, and this one is free, doesn’t nag you much at all, and is well reviewed. I supplement with spyware removers and Hijack This when needed.
- 7-Zip – Once upon a time, there was Winzip, and we all used it. But then you started seeing downloads in other formats, and needed more than what Winzip provided. 7-Zip covers all the relevant bases (.7z, zip, arj, rar).
- MyDefrag – Not simple to use, but a powerful and customizable disk defragmenter. Currently set to do daily tidying up at 4am, and a detailed cleanup every month.
- TeraCopy – Seems mundane, but if you move large files around a lot, whether they are pictures, videos, disc images, whatever, getting it done faster would be a no brainer. TeraCopy does that. Love it.
Games and gaming:
- Steam – It has some detractors, but I honestly love being able to install one program, and have access to a whole library of my games in one place. No longer worry about where your damn CD key is or those lost discs like I mentioned. Pretty freaking awesome sales, too.
- DOSBox and D-Fend Reloaded – If you’ve read this site, you know I love old games, so DOSbox is essential. D-Fend Reloaded is a front end that makes DOSbox a lot easier to use. Handy if you lost – or never had – your DOS chops.
- FRAPS – Most games have a screenshot feature, but FRAPS is much more customizable, and it lets you see your framerate. If you ever wanted to capture videos, go for it. I always forget to start it, though…
Everything else:
- Inkscape – I’m not a great artist, but I like to dabble, and Inkscape is a great vector art program that’s free.
- Tweetdeck – Great if you manage more than one Twitter account, though I’ve never used it for Facebook or any of the other stuff it can do.
- Picasa – Just a simple way to manage and do basic photo editing. Lifesaver, as long as all my pictures are dated properly. I’m looking at family that don’t know how to set the time on the cameras.
If you want more stuff, I can go deeper, but these are the apps that are must have for me. Got any other suggestions? Comment ’em.
Leave a Reply