Whether you’re shopping for antivirus software or free PC optimizers, finding the right tools can keep your computer running like new. These essentials protect you, make work easier and open up a world of possibilities.
The first thing a PC does when you press the power button is run internal hardware and software processes. This is called booting.
Office Suite
An office suite is a collection of applications that provide a range of productivity tools like word processing, spreadsheet and presentation software. Whether you choose Microsoft Office or an open-source alternative, there are many ways to get the most out of your office suite.
The latest suites feature a host of tools to boost collaboration, manage files and make sure that everything stays secure. Features can include a document management system, email suite, project management and a calendar application. Some even have videoconferencing and note taking programs as well as cloud storage.
The most popular office suite software is Microsoft 365, which includes mainstays like Word, Excel and PowerPoint, as well as cloud storage and online collaboration tools. However, other options are available to suit your preferences and budget. Some offer a full set of features for free, while others come with a subscription or one-time purchase. All of these suites offer a wide range of functions for creating, editing and saving documents and spreadsheets, including support for a variety of file formats.
Antivirus Software
Antivirus software protects a user’s computer against viruses and malware. These programs can steal private information, such as passwords and credit card numbers, and can cause damage to a user’s files and degrade system performance.
Viruses latch onto a host program, such as a document or game, and then execute unwanted and malicious actions. They can self-replicate, destroy data, infect systems and devices, monitor keystrokes and hijack computers.
Antivirus software uses scanners and other tools to identify these threats and stop them from causing harm. Many products feature a firewall and privacy controls that prevent hackers from accessing sensitive data. Some offer a range of other security features, such as a secure digital safe for holding passwords and financial data. Some can be used across multiple platforms, including smartphones and tablets. They can also provide updates to address software flaws that could let hackers spy on users’ activity or steal their data. These updates are often delivered automatically through Windows Update, for example.
System Maintenance Tools
System maintenance tools include software that cleans junk files, reorganizes hard drive data, defragments and optimizes the performance of the computer. These tools can also help to detect and remove malware from the PC. Most of these tools are available for free of cost, but some may require a subscription fee to keep the program updated.
These tools can help prevent the risk of malware, improve employee productivity, and reduce expenses associated with repair and replacement costs. They can also help prevent downtime and loss of critical information.
When choosing a maintenance management tool, look for one that is easy to use and requires minimal upkeep from IT professionals. In addition, make sure the solution is compatible with your organization’s infrastructure and scalable for future growth. You should also consider how frequently the product receives updates and whether there are additional fees for upgrades or support. A comprehensive knowledgebase is an important consideration when selecting a maintenance management tool.
Games
Game software lets users enjoy a world of fun and adventure. Contrary to popular stereotypes of introverted gamers hanging out alone in their parents’ basements playing solitaire, most games are designed to be social experiences that allow players to interact with each other through video and voice capabilities and chat functions.
The largest store for gaming on PCs is Valve’s Steam client, which offers a huge selection of single-player and multiplayer games that can be purchased at once or through microtransactions. These games can be highly resource intensive or simple point-and-click efforts, with some featuring sprawling epic stories that take hours to complete. They can also be multiplayer and competitive, pitting two or more players against each other in matches that are played over the Internet.