Best apps for a new computer
A new computer means a clean slate. Why clutter it up with inferior software? These tools offer what you need to get started, from the essentials to the simply entertaining.
Mac OS X 10.5 Leopard
8.0 Excellent (reviewed 10/25/07)
The grace of Leopard's interface enhancements makes productivity more pleasurable with a Mac, as more than 300 functional and fun features top off this update.
Read review of the Mac OS X 10.5 Leopard
OpenOffice 2
6.0 Good (reviewed 12/6/05)
OpenOffice 2, the freeware version of Sun Microsystems StarOffice 8, is a great deal for home and small-businesses users who don't mind browsing online forums for tech support. But enterprise users are better served by StarOffice 8.
Read review of the OpenOffice 2
ZoneAlarm Internet Security Suite 7
8.0 Excellent (reviewed 1/16/07)
ZoneAlarm Internet Security Suite 7 provides the perfect balance between best-of-breed security protection and ease of use, providing the home user with superior protection that's light on system resources.
Read review of the ZoneAlarm Internet Security Suite 7
Firefox 3
8.0 Excellent (reviewed 6/17/08)
If only for the speed, lightness of being, and security alone, Firefox remains our Editors' Choice for best Internet browser.
Read review of the Firefox 3
Microsoft Vista Home Basic
7.0 Very good (reviewed 1/24/07)
Windows Vista Home Basic is essentially warmed-over Windows XP, Windows XP SP3. If you're currently happy with Windows XP SP2, we see no compelling reason to upgrade. On the other hand, if you need a new computer right now, Windows Vista is stable enough for everyday use.
Read review of the Microsoft Vista Home Basic