After Installing Windows Or Buying A Home Computer, You Need To Install A Set Of Software. In This Article, We Introduce The Most Useful Windows Software.
If you have bought a new laptop or computer or just changed Windows and don’t know which programs to install, stay with me in this article to introduce the best and most useful Windows programs in 2023.
Although the software we mention below is widely used and necessary, it does not mean the user must install all of them after installing Windows. Microsoft provides a default solution in Windows 10 for almost all the mentioned cases.
For example, Windows Defender is a powerful security system that makes the user almost unnecessary to install an antivirus; the Chromium-based Edge browser is no longer as bad as Internet Explorer.
It can be used for daily tasks, PDF files can be viewed in the browser, and software Music playback, screenshot capture, and Microsoft cloud are pre-installed on Windows.
However, some users may prefer to use alternative applications. On the other hand, many of these applications are also available as web services.
1. System maintenance and cleaning
the maintenance software is needed to remove junk files, caches, temporary files, and many other things that take up space and consume essential system resources. Computer maintenance software balances the system by removing unwanted files and helping PC run fast and smoothly. In this section, we introduce some examples of the best system maintenance and repair software:
Advanced System Optimizer software is a powerful tool to remove unwanted files and improve computer performance. This software has a simple user interface and is easy to use. Its features include cleaning the system, improving memory performance, and protecting files. In short, this software is an all-in-one tool for Windows management.
With features such as easy cleaning to customization of cleaning elements, CCleaner software removes all annoying registry and computer files and saves system resources and time for more critical tasks. CCleaner Professional is the paid version of this software that can remove internet trackers.
If you are looking to remove duplicate files, we recommend Duplicate Cleaner. This free application has a simple user interface that helps to find and remove duplicate and duplicate files.
Other prominent Windows cleaning tools include IObit Advanced SystemCare and CleanMyPC, which help to have a safer and cleaner computer.
2. Antivirus
Windows 10 is equipped with security tools; however, you can use free computer antiviruses to add another layer of protection.
Malwarebytes is one of the best tools available for detecting malware attacks. However, the accessible version of this software offers fewer features than the paid version.
Bitdefender software provides multi-layered protection against malware and ransomware. With this tool, you can have a secure banking and web browsing experience and optimize your system performance without security concerns.
Avast Antivirus is one of the best free antiviruses for PC, providing instant protection against spyware, ransomware, and malicious content. This antivirus increases network security, passwords, routers, and browsers and has a simple installation.
Meanwhile, McAfee antivirus is a more advanced set to protect against viruses. This application is one of the most popular and robust antivirus available, which more than 600 million users use. McAfee protects financial information and data mining and controls threatening system entries. Based on the application, you can choose one of its designs.
3. Password management software
The theft of information related to identity and passwords is one of the problems of today’s digital world. By installing specialized password management software, you can protect this sensitive data.
TweakPass is an intelligent password management software that saves all Passwordounts’ passwords with a master password feature. This software has a user-friendly and straightforward interface.
Another recommended option is Bitwarden, whose free version meets all the user’s needs; however, with an annual payment of ten dollars, you can access more features, such as encrypted file sharing.
1Password is also recommended in this list, which can be an excellent alternative to paid software like LastPass. One PasswPassworda simple user interface with a minimal design, which allows storing much other information besides the passwPasswordnload TweakPass
4. Cloud storage and backup
One of the essential Windows applications is backing up and securely accessing files from any device. Due to the volume of videos and images stored in the apparatus, computer memory fills up quickly. This is where cloud storage comes in as a cost-effective option.
Google Drive is one of the best tools for backing up files and accessing them securely from any device because it provides rich features and cost-effective backup and sync services. This platform provides users with 15 GB of storage space, and its paid plans start at 100 GB of storage. Google Drive is also compatible with applications such as Google Docs, Google Sheets, and Google Photos.
Dropbox is another popular storage tool that solves all cross-platform problems. This platform provides users with 2 GB of free storage space, which is not much, but it is also compatible with Google Sheets and Photos.
OneDrive is another platform for storing documents, images, and other file types. Quickly find files through managed grouping and share them as needed. Google Drive and OneDrive are good alternatives to Dropbox, with less storage space.
If you have sensitive files, you can also use iCloud, which provides device-centric encryption so that if your account is hacked, hackers can’t open files without access to the device.
5. browser
Today, due to the expansion of the Internet, browsers are an inseparable part of the user experience; But choosing a safe browser with ease of use and high speed among the available options is very important.
Google Chrome is undoubtedly the most popular Windows browser software. This free browser has many extensions and can be customized according to the user’s interests. Users can use the anonymous feature in this browser to privatize and hide their data and search history. Of course, Chrome is not perfect. Many people want to eliminate Chrome’s traces and high RAM consumption, but better options like Firefox and Opera do not have these disadvantages.
Also, if you want to use Chrome’s features and eliminate Google’s tracking methods, Ungoogled Chromium is a good option. The problem is that in this version, many Google-based services are disabled, and there is no alternative for them.
Open-source Firefox is the next popular option, a more integrated app with better privacy features than Chrome. The private browsing feature of this browser allows the user to search the Internet without leaving a trace or recording history and cookies. Firefox also has a Safe Browsing feature that increases its security against attacks and ransomware.
Edge browser is the default Windows browser that offers good features. Among the features of this browser, we can mention the prevention of tracking, the possibility of private search, the customization of plugins, and the display and editing of PDFs directly in the browser.
6. Social and communication applications
Video chat and messaging applications have many uses depending on the audience. Among the most widespread messaging applications, we can mention WhatsApp and Telegram. Both have desktop apps in addition to mobile apps.
Google Meet is an integrated web-based alternative to Zoom that requires no installation. The zoom application is suitable for video chat and provides screen recording and sharing features. This application is ideal for accessing large groups. Although in its free plan, you can talk with only one person for more than 40 minutes. You can also enable end-to-end encryption to avoid targeted ads.
Microsoft Teams is another popular option for large groups and can hold meetings with a capacity of 100 participants. The signal is another choice developed by a non-profit organization without tracking or advertising. The Cisco Webex application also allows inviting people through a link.
For quality communication, you can also use Discord, which has integrated messaging and video chat capabilities and is accessible regardless of the number of people on the server.
- For public access: download WhatsApp, Telegram, and Zoom
- For higher privacy: Signal
- For work environments: Microsoft Teams or Cisco WebEx
- For gaming and entertainment: Discord
7. Defragmentation tool
Scattered data that is divided into bits and pieces in a computer can slow down the speed and overall performance of the computer. This is where you need to use the right integration tool to sort the data.
Defraggler tool is an example of powerful defragmenter software that speeds up computer performance by defragmenting files on your computer and providing high security so that you can ultimately save a lot of space. You can also customize the default settings for the files and folders you want to integrate.
IObit Smart Defrag is another valuable data defragmenter that can optimize system boot time. This software also increases the security and privacy of the computer with its extensive disk cleanup database.
8. Download the management tool
Free Download Manager (FDM) is a high-speed free download management tool that optimizes the download process by dividing files into smaller parts. This software allows users to pause and resume the download process and is compatible with torrent files. This software also has a simple user interface and high ease of use.
Internet Download Manager is one of the fastest download management applications that perform well in receiving and automatically identifying video downloads from online sources. This application can also place files and videos to download in the browser and resume the download process with just one click. You can copy the desired URL to download it in the IDM dashboard. However, this software is paid for and has a 30-day free trial.
BitTorrent is a free, open-source, cross-platform application with a simple user interface that provides users with intelligent options. The positive point of this application is the absence of annoying ads.
Another recommended option on this list is Deluge, with its advanced user interface and rich set of plugins. Despite having advanced settings, this application is lightweight, and you can download almost everything with it.
9. Email the client
If you haven’t used an email client on your PC yet, we recommend Mailbird. With this application, you can manage all email accounts with great ease. One of the advantages of this email client is access to widely used social applications such as Twitter, WhatsApp, and Facebook.
The email client eM client has a modern user interface with high ease of use. This client provides quick access to linked accounts, folders, calendars, contacts, and various tasks. Its distinctive feature is the translation of emails into 39 other languages.
Also, for a smooth user experience, you can use Thunderbird, a free email client with simple settings. The Activity Manager feature in this application records all conversations between the email provider and you.
10. file management
Over time, many files accumulate in the memory and become scattered. That’s why we need file management tools.
Zilla is a free software for managing files and organizing the user interface. This software, which supports FTP and SSH file transfer protocols, allows remote editing of files.
Files App is an alternative to Windows File Explorer, which provides users with enough features to be superior to the Windows file management application.
To see which files and folders occupy the most space on your PC, you can use WinDirStat or Space Sniffer. Use Bulk Rename Utility if you sort many files by name or rename meaningless image files on your phone or camera.
11. File compression tool
File compression tools are essential for more accessible file storage. File compression software has a long history and has become crucial to users’ data management software.
Among the free options available, 7-Zip is one of the best compression software that can compress almost any format. With 7-Zip, you can compress large files, but this tool also has high speed.
Another recommended software is Zip Archiver, and although it is not the first choice, it is worth choosing thanks to its strong support for formats and the fact that it is free. One of the advantages of this application is its ease of use, which simplifies things with the drag-and-drop process.
12. File recovery tool
What do you do if you lose essential Windows files? Don’t worry; in such a situation, you can use optimal file recovery software to get back your important data.
The Recuva application can recover all your files from damaged or newly formatted drives. With this application, you don’t need to worry about the type of storage space.
TestDisk is open-source software designed to recover lost partitions. This application can rebuild and restore the boot partition with a strong backup. Whether you are a beginner or a professional, this application is a perfect choice.
13. Image Editor
Except for the Adobe collection or other large and paid software, there is lighter free software for editing images, of which we will mention a few examples below.
If you are looking for an image editing application for Windows, you can use the Adobe Photoshop Elements version. TPhotoshop Elements is a good option for beginners due to its simple user interface. His application can design anything from personal memes to photo editing.
Autodesk Sketchbook is another good application for creating works of art that offer users a wide range of tools. This application is very suitable for touchscreen users.
Paint.NET is an image editing and drawing software suitable for everyday use. Of course, don’t forget that this application is unlike Windows Paint or Paint 3D applications. Instead, it provides users with broader tools and facilities to build impressive projects.
Another popular option is Affinity Photo, a unique image editing software that allows you to create impressive masterpieces. This application has a wide range of valuable features, support for different color spaces, 16 and 32-bit editing, and support for unlimited layers.
14. Entertainment and media
Media and entertainment are inseparable parts of our lives. VLC Media Player can be considered one of the popular options among media applications. This software plays all kinds of files in all sorts of formats, and the best part is the absence of annoying ads.
If you’re looking to browse music content with millions of songs and custom playlists, Spotify is the ideal choice. This media player has free and premium versions (without ads). You can customize your playlist by artists, songs, or favorite music. Moreover, you can download these songs for offline use.
Another recommended option is PotPlayer, an application made in South Korea, which can be considered the king of free media players. VLC and Potplayer have a lot in common, but unlike VLC, which crashes when playing larger files, Potplayer always works.
15. PDF software
PDF format is one of the world’s most popular text document formats. Adobe Acrobat Reader software is at the top of the list of the best PDF software. This software is designed with two goals: the ability to read and work with PDF files (such as annotating or signing documents) and convince users to upgrade to the paid version of the software that provides more features, such as editing PDF files. Acrobat Reader would be just a simple PDF reader software if it weren’t for the second feature. This software is easy to use and has primary and essential elements for working with PDF files. In addition, it is the most popular option among users.
If you want to create, edit, or protect your PDF documents, you need an app that goes beyond a simple PDF reader. Nitro PDF is one of the most popular free PDF editors that you can use to create, edit, convert, markup, or protect PDF documents and files.
Another popular option on this list, Foxit PDF Reader, is more than just a free PDF reader. With this software, you can create PDF files from scratch. The Microsoft Office suite’s compatibility allows you to convert your documents to PDF easily.
16. Screen sharing and remote access tools
As an intelligent tool, TeamViewer securely connects your desktop to another desktop. If you want to share something with your colleagues remotely or are looking for a solution, use remote access software. You can use this software on the web, application, or as a plugin. There are two versions of this software, the paid version, which is costly.
Another popular option is Anydesk, which provides access to Windows and Mac computers and Android and iOS mobile devices. This application makes it possible to connect between host and remote devices. The free version of this software provides enough features to users.
To connect to another desktop, you can also use Chrome Remote Desktop, a web-based connection for remote sharing of phones, tablets, and other devices. All you have to do is download the tool extension on Google Chrome.
17. Text editor
Usually, the default computer text editing tools do not have enough text editing features; additional software must be installed to reach a regular format. Notepad++ is a more advanced version of Windows Notepad software that is especially useful for coders and offers user-friendly features and different tabs. This software also has macro support.
Sublime text is a lightweight and highly efficient text editor with a wide range of editing tools and a user-friendly interface. This application has a variety of visual themes, screen modes, and several plugins to enhance the appeal of text editing.
18. office suite
Microsoft Office is still the king of the office suite, But there are free alternatives. If you are looking for a free suite similar to Microsoft Office, you can use Free Office. Like all free office suites, this application has supported file formats from 1997 onwards. Unfortunately, some key features of this software are limited to its premium version.
WPS Office Free is the free version of the WPS office suite, but these two versions have no significant difference. Each program has the latest Word, Excel, and PowerPoint versions and offers various features. This software has extensive file format support and provides a free PDF reader, an excellent alternative to the default Windows application.
Another popular suite is Libre Office, which is compatible with various document formats and has almost all the essential features of Word, PowerPoint, and Excel. The suite includes six programs for everyday office tasks: Writer, Calc, Impress, Draw, Math, and Base. You won’t find the last three tools in many office suites designed for vector graphics, math functions, and databases, respectively. LibreOffice is an open-source, flexible application that home and business users can use for free.
19. Screen recording tools
A few years ago, screenshots were not very popular among PC users. At that time, this feature was used to share on-screen error codes; But today, screenshots have become an essential part of everyday life. For example, recording a screenshot of a popular post on social platforms or a funny message are examples. Students can take screenshots of the screens for educational purposes. For this reason, various tools have been developed for this purpose.
Greenshot is one of the most popular and best Windows screen recording software that you can use to record screenshots and snapshots. With the help of this tool, you can take a screenshot of a window, a specific area, or the entire screen.
TweakShot Screen Capture not only allows you to record screen images but also allows you to edit images, record screen videos, and scroll screenshots. This software is a good option for learning and training.
ShareX software is an outstanding screenshot tool for Windows and allows sharing of identical files. This lightweight software provides the user with features such as text recording, scrolling screenshots, screen recording, and GIF creation.
20. ISO file software
Windows 10 has a built-in feature to manage ISO files in File Explorer directly. To mount an image or ISO file in Windows, right-click on the file and select the Mount option.
But sometimes, you may prefer to use additional tools that offer more features. Daemon Tools Lite is one of Windows’s most popular and oldest ISO file installation software. This software allows you to mount or run all desired ISO files by double-clicking on the image file. In addition, you can mount different file types like VHD, VMDK, TC, True Crypt files, and many more with this software.
If you are looking for free and open-source ISO mount software for Windows, you can try ImDisk Toolkit. This software can mount a wide range of image files with just a few clicks.
21. Burning and duplicating software
Ashampoo Burning Studio is the best free DVD-burning software for audiobooks. With this software, you no longer need to worry about naming and sorting tracks. You can save audiobooks to discs or a flash drive, USB drive, or MP3 player. This software has advanced audiobook features not seen in other DVD-burning software. It also allows burning videos such as MP4 files, images, and even movies with HD quality.
BurnAware software is a free and complete DVD-burning application for Windows. This application has many CD-burning features and a user-friendly interface. This software has facilities such as creating disc images, extracting audio tracks from DVDs, and copying and cleaning discs efficiently.
- Download Ashampoo Burning Studio
- Download BurnAware
22. That installer
Removing one or two applications through the built-in functionality of Windows may be a simple task. Still, with the uninstaller software, you can easily find and remove unnecessary and idle applications. By doing this, you can save time and system space.
IObit Uninstaller can remove unwanted software with just one click. Moreover, it optimally removes plugins and toolbars without leaking privacy data. Ninite is another recommended uninstaller app with a simple interface that doesn’t interfere with everyday tasks and removes unnecessary apps in the background.
23. Driver update software
A driver or a device driver is a computer program that connects one or more hardware devices, such as speakers, printers, graphics cards, and other devices, to the computer operating system. Without the correct drivers, the operating system cannot detect the kind of connected device and its operation and control.
Therefore, updating Windows drivers is necessary to achieve the healthy performance of hardware parts. Using outdated or broken drivers may expose your system to various damages. The best and safest way to prevent these problems is to use driver updater software for Windows.
Bit Driver Updater free software can fix driver-related problems and increase processing speed by improving system performance. This software is free and very easy to use.
Driver Easy software can automatically search for outdated drivers. Unlike similar applications, this program downloads drivers without opening an external browser inside the software. Usually, scanning of this software is done daily, weekly, monthly, and when the computer is idle. This software has more than 8 million drivers.
24. Video tools
For beginner-level video editing, applications such as Wondershare Filmora or Shotcut are sufficient. If you are looking for more features, you can choose DaVinci Resolve. This software has free versions, and if you are looking for the best parts, you can get paid software such as Adobe Premiere Pro or Final Cut Pro; But if you want to convert old videos to modern formats, you can use the Handbrake application. Handbrake is an open-source video converter that can convert video files to various formats. You can also add video filters and maintain video quality.
25. Note-taking tool
The OneNote app in the Office suite is note-taking software for jotting down ideas, organizing projects, thoughts, and anything related. This software can synchronize your notes, save Outlook content, and support voice memos.
Evernote is a simple note-taking application for Windows that allows you to manage deadlines for projects, clients, and meetings in one online resource. Microsoft To-Do is another popular option for reminders and tasks on Windows and other platforms; It helps to organize and track daily tasks and increase productivity.
26. Other tools
In the following, we introduce another set of software that may be useful to you in addition to the above list:
- F.lux: Unfortunately, many people spend too much time staring at their screens, But this app reduces eye fatigue and improves sleep patterns. F.lux is a multi-platform application that automatically adjusts the screen’s brightness based on the color of the room you are in, the time of day, and the surrounding light sources.
- Unchecky: Sometimes, when installing software on the system, many unnecessary files are downloaded. Unchecky app can continuously monitor the checkboxes during software installation and prevent the installation of extra files.
- ClipClip: This software is one of the best and most useful Windows programs that you can use to save text, images, and other files on the clipboard. You can then save these files and access them under different names. To display the list of files, you copied to the clipboard, use the shortcut key: Ctrl+Shift+V.