Whether you've just purchased a new Infinix laptop or have reinstalled Windows in your old one, installing the right apps is probably the foremost thing to do. But which one you should have before you take your laptop in use? Here are 15 essential apps for Windows that everyone should install right away, each described in detail to help you understand their benefits and how to install them.
These essential apps and software will enhance your laptop experience by providing robust security, efficient productivity, and seamless entertainment. By installing these tools, you’ll ensure your new laptop is equipped to handle a wide range of tasks right out of the box.
- Internet Browser: Google Chrome
Description: Google Chrome is renowned for its speed, simplicity, and security. It offers a vast library of extensions that enhance productivity, entertainment, and security. Chrome's cross-platform syncing feature allows you to access your bookmarks, history, and tabs across multiple devices, including smartphones and tablets. This browser also integrates well with Google services, making it ideal for users deeply embedded in the Google ecosystem.
Installation:
- Visit the Google Chrome download page.
- Click on "Download Chrome."
- Run the downloaded installer and follow the on-screen instructions.
- Cloud Storage: Google Drive
Description: Google Drive provides 15GB of free storage shared across Google Photos and Gmail. It allows you to back up your files and access them from any device with an internet connection. Google Drive's integration with Google Docs, Sheets, and Slides makes it a powerful tool for collaboration and productivity. The app also includes features for sharing files and setting permissions, ensuring that you can collaborate securely with others.
Installation:
- Visit the Google Drive download page.
- Download the appropriate version for your operating system.
- Install the app and sign in with your Google account.
- Productivity Suite: Microsoft Office
Description: Microsoft Office is the gold standard for productivity software, offering Word for document creation, Excel for spreadsheets, PowerPoint for presentations, and more. This suite is essential for both professional and personal use, providing advanced features like real-time collaboration, extensive formatting options, and powerful data analysis tools.
Installation:
- Purchase a subscription from the Microsoft Office website.
- Download the installer and follow the setup instructions.
- Activate your subscription with your Microsoft account.
- Media Player: VLC Media Player
Description: VLC Media Player is an open-source, cross-platform media player that supports a wide range of audio and video formats. It is known for its reliability and versatility, allowing users to play media files without needing additional codecs. VLC also offers advanced features such as subtitle synchronization, video filters, and the ability to stream media over a network.
Installation:
- Visit the VLC Media Player download page.
- Download the installer for Windows.
- Run the installer and complete the setup process.
- Security Software: Malwarebytes Anti-Malware
Description: Malwarebytes Anti-Malware is essential for protecting your LAPTOP against a variety of threats, including malware, ransomware, and spyware. It provides real-time protection and conducts thorough scans to detect and remove malicious software. The software is lightweight and does not significantly impact system performance, making it an ideal choice for continuous protection.
Installation:
- Visit the Malwarebytes download page.
- Download the free version or purchase a premium subscription.
- Install the software and run a scan to check for malware.
- System Cleaner: CCleaner
Description: CCleaner is a utility that helps optimize your LAPTOP by removing unnecessary files and cleaning the Windows Registry. It improves system performance and frees up disk space, which can enhance your LAPTOP’s speed and efficiency. CCleaner also includes tools for managing startup programs, uninstalling applications, and monitoring system health.
Installation:
- Visit the CCleaner download page.
- Download the free version.
- Run the installer and follow the on-screen instructions.
- File Archiver: 7-Zip
Description: 7-Zip is an open-source file archiver known for its high compression ratio and support for various file formats, including ZIP, RAR, and 7z. It is a lightweight and efficient tool for managing compressed files, making it indispensable for users who frequently work with large files and need to save disk space.
Installation:
- Visit the 7-Zip download page.
- Download the installer for your system architecture (32-bit or 64-bit).
- Run the installer and follow the instructions.
- Note-Taking App: Evernote
Description: Evernote is a comprehensive note-taking app that syncs across all your devices. It allows you to capture ideas, create to-do lists, and store important information in various formats, including text, images, and audio. Evernote’s organizational features, such as notebooks and tags, make it easy to manage your notes efficiently.
Installation:
- Visit the Evernote download page.
- Download the installer for Windows.
- Install the app and sign in with your Evernote account.
- Communication: Skype
Description: Skype is a popular communication tool that supports voice calls, video chats, and instant messaging. It is widely used for both personal and professional communication, offering features like screen sharing, file transfer, and conference calls. Skype’s cross-platform support ensures that you can stay connected with contacts on any device.
Installation:
- Visit the Skype download page.
- Download the installer for Windows.
- Run the installer and follow the setup process.
- Cloud Storage: Dropbox
Description: Dropbox provides secure cloud storage and file synchronization, allowing you to access your files from any device with an internet connection. It supports file sharing and collaboration, making it an excellent tool for both personal and professional use. Dropbox also offers advanced features like version history, which lets you restore previous versions of files.
Installation:
- Visit the Dropbox download page.
- Download the installer for Windows.
- Install the app and sign in with your Dropbox account.
- Web Browser: Firefox
Description: Firefox is a customizable web browser known for its privacy features and extensive library of add-ons. It offers strong security features, such as enhanced tracking protection, and a clean, user-friendly interface. Firefox’s performance and flexibility make it a solid alternative to other major browsers.
Installation:
- Visit the Firefox download page.
- Download the installer.
- Run the installer and follow the on-screen instructions.
- Photo Management: Picasa
Description: Picasa is a free photo management software that helps you organize, edit, and share your photos. It offers basic editing tools like color adjustment, effects, and red-eye removal. Picasa’s user-friendly interface and organizational features, such as albums and tags, make it easy to keep your photo collection in order.
Installation:
- Download Picasa from a reputable source (note: Picasa is no longer officially supported by Google, so ensure you download it from a trusted site).
- Run the installer and follow the setup instructions.
- Remote Access: TeamViewer
Description: TeamViewer allows you to remotely access another computer from your own device. It is ideal for providing technical support or accessing files on your home LAPTOP while traveling. TeamViewer supports file transfer, remote printing, and secure connection features to ensure your data is safe during remote sessions.
Installation:
- Visit the TeamViewer download page.
- Download the installer.
- Install the software and set up remote access.
- PDF Reader: Adobe Acrobat Reader
Description: Adobe Acrobat Reader is the industry standard for viewing and interacting with PDF documents. It includes annotation tools for highlighting text and adding comments, as well as the ability to fill out forms and sign documents digitally. Adobe Acrobat Reader’s integration with other Adobe products makes it a powerful tool for managing PDFs.
Installation:
- Visit the Adobe Acrobat Reader download page.
- Download the installer.
- Run the installer and follow the setup process.
- Text Editor: Notepad++
Description: Notepad++ is a powerful text editor with features such as syntax highlighting for various programming languages, tabbed editing, and search/replace functions. It is ideal for coding and editing plain text files. Notepad++’s lightweight design ensures it runs efficiently without consuming excessive system resources.
Installation:
- Visit the Notepad++ download page.
- Download the installer.
- Run the installer and follow the on-screen instructions.
