Software Recommendations

All Freeware or Open Source

When I'm doing onsite work, these are the most advised and required applications for optimal pc functionallity. And it's FREE!! I will list them in order of importance.

AVG Antivirus

This is the best free antivirus around.

Spybot Search and Destroy

By far, the best destroyer of spyware but it only gets 99 percent of the spyware.

Ad-Aware SE Personal

Most of the time I won't need to, but for that last one percent of spyware left, I'll use Ad-aware.

Open Office

Totally free Microsoft Office compatible software. It's amazing that most of the population still spends up to 500 dollar for Microsoft's version.

Zone Alarm Firewall

Most people have XP Service pack 2 or Vista so they don't need a firewall (since it's included). But for people that don't have those versions or just need additional security, it's a simple firewall that won't bother you as much as Norton or Mcafee.

VLC Media Player

This player has many advanced features and will play many videos that won't play on Windows Media Player. If what your trying to play still doesn't work you might need a codec.

ACE Media Codec

This program is more advanced and not advised for beginners to install, but this will give you all the codecs and media players you need to get almost any video going. Warning, this site hasn't been checked for spyware.

Media Player Classic

This is another player like VLC, but it's my favorite because you can control everything with a scroll or a click (if set up correctly). This is also the only player you can change the size of your video by using the keypad.

AVG Internet Security Retail Software

Avg antivirus is a program which is easy on system resources and easy to install and use. The automated update process updates everyday to the latest version. Optional components include AVG Email Scanner, which checks your MS Outlook (or other) mail program for viruses; AVG Resident Shield, which checks for viruses as files as they are used; and AVG Virus Vault, where infected files are isolated so they don't damage your system. Avg Internet Security is advised for customers that don't already have a firewall and want full protection.

Product Comparison

Feature	AVG Internet Security	Avg Internet Security Home Edition	AVG Antivirus	AVG Anti-Spyware
	starting at $52.95 USD for one computer	starting at $64.95 USD for three computers	starting at $29.95 USD for one computer	starting at $29.95 USD for one computer
	Buy	Buy	Buy	Buy
Special price for 3 computers
Antivirus
Antispyware
Antispam
Firewall