Best 5 applications

Elsa Wenzel

Associate Editor

(Jun 18, 2008) Whether you use a Windows or Mac computer, the best software puts tools for work and play at your fingertips. We consider these five titles to be solid staples with rich features for productivity, security, and creativity.

Firefox 3

Firefox 3 touts faster rendering, reduced use of system resources, and clever new data-mining tools for your bookmarks and browser history.
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Adobe Photoshop CS3

Thanks to zippy performance and enhancements including Smart Filters and the updated Bridge CS3, Photoshop CS3 is worth the upgrade.
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Price: $388.00 - $504.78 (check prices)

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Kaspersky Anti-Virus 7

Kaspersky Anti-Virus 7 outshines the competition by combining ease of use with strong antivirus protection.
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Price: $52.99 - $59.99 (check prices)

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Mac OS X 10.5 Leopard

Mac OS X 10.5 Leopard, Apple's first operating system update in two years, proves to be worth the wait.
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Price: $113.92 - $113.92 (check prices)

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Microsoft Office Standard 2007

Although less-expensive or free alternatives abound, Microsoft Office 2007 provides more breadth and depth than competing packages for word processing, spreadsheets, and presentations.
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Price: $181.99 - $407.95 (check prices)

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