Question: How much software do you need and how much will it cost me?
Answer: Well, that depends on what you use your computer for. The cost is usually free.
List updated 20th April 2025
NINITE - Installer & Updater
Select which software you want and Ninite will created a single file that will install all your software and avoid the unwanted tick boxes.
UnigetUI - Checks most of your software for updates (Win10+ only)
I also recommend checking out Windhawk for customisation
Microsoft Edge - pre-installed with Windows
Firefox - Open Source (Highly recommended)
add-ons: LastPass, uBlock Origin, Search Result Previews, G App Launcher
I personally don't recommend Google Chrome due to bloating and privacy settings.
It is always worth checking the Privacy & Security Settings of any browser you use.
Opera has so many boxes ticked that remove almost all privacy protection.
Messaging:
Zoom & Discord (optional)
Media:
VLC - video player (recommended)
Spotify & iTunes (optional)
Imaging:
IrfanView - Image viewer (recommended)
Developer Tools:
Notepad++ - better than pre-installed Notepad (recommended)
Documents:
Foxit Reader - pdf viewer (recommended)
Installation Notes: Trust Manager - untick "Enable Safe Reading Mode" as this can cause problems viewing documents. Don't install the free 14 day trial unless you really need premium features.
LibreOffice - MS Office alternative (essential)
Google Docs, Sheets, Slides & Forms are available via a web browser but features can be very limited.
Basic programs come installed with Windows, however programs like VLC & IrfanView are small and powerful enough to open most files.
Windows Security - pre-installed with Windows
I would recommend NOT paying a 3rd party company for software that is more than likely going to slow your computer and web pages down, falsely report downloads as containing viruses and blocking legitimate websites (such as Norton Safe Web).
Dropbox
Google Drive
One Drive - included with Windows
Consider whether you want style or substance.
- Outlook for Windows (Previously Mail & Calendar) comes pre-installed and is improving. Ideal if you just have 1-3 email accounts.
- Thunderbird can be used as portable app on a USB or Cloud Drive and can be used for just about any email account. You can also easily add subfolders and Tags. You can also just view Favourite Folders which makes for a cleaner working environment.
Google version available 2025.
- BlueMail is a great alternative and works with most email accounts. Can be synced with Android, iOS and other PCs. (not available from Ninite)
Alt Snap
Move stuck windows just by holding the Alt Key while moving the mouse
8 Gadget Pack
Windows 11 now supports a few gadgets but 8 Gadget Pack has some others that you may find useful
Mr Memory
Install scanner software to check for RAM & Hard Drive upgrade options
CrystalDiskMark
Test the Read/Write Speed of your disk drives
Novabench
System performance tests - CPU, GPU, Memory & Storage
Autoruns
Shows all Startup, System processes and more
Use with extreme care
Disk Genius
Hard Drive cloning software
Safe & Secure
Links in emails and chats - even if they come from friends - Links that suggest you are in a video, can claim a free prizes, asking for a non-delivery fee or telling you there is a problem with your PayPal or bank are more than likely going to be scams. NEVER log in if you are asked to after following a link. If you are sent to a PayPal, bank, WhatsApp, Instagram, etc style page then don't use it. Use your normal Browser Bookmark OR use the Browser Search for the genuine login page.
If you think you may have been the victim of a scam then change your password immediately - if you use the same password and email address for all your accounts you should change those passwords too as hackers may try your details on other applications.
Release, Active Support & Security Support End Dates for Windows Operating Systems
Active and supported operating systems:
Windows 12 - launch date to be confirmed
04 Oct 2021 - Windows 11 (OS10) - current version receiving regular updates and support
29 Jul 2015 - Windows 10 (OS10) - 14 Oct 2025 - 14 Oct 2025 (suitable for upgrades)
Unsupported operating systems - not suitable for upgrades:
13 Nov 2013 - Windows 8.1 (OS6.3) - 09 Jan 2018 - 10 Jan 2023 (computer will need replacing)
Redundant operating systems that should not be used online and only used for retro purposes
May be suitable for replacement with Linux
30 Oct 2012 - Windows 8 (OS6.2) - 12 Jan 2016 - 12 Jan 2016 (OS replaced with 8.1)
22 Feb 2011 - Windows 7 (OS6.1) - 13 Jan 2015 - 14 Jan 2020
29 Apr 2009 - Windows Vista (OS6) - 10 Apr 2012 - 11 Apr 2017
21 Apr 2008 - Windows XP SP3 (OS5.1) - 14 Apr 2009 - 08 Apr 2014