Part 5 - Software

Software applications are software programs. They are the brains of the computer. They include the operating system (O/S), discussed in Part 4, as well as all other software applications. All software programs work under the O/S. Except for a few games, software programs are written for specific operating systems, and not for the CPU or Memory. Make sure the exact versions (such as Version 3.1, Version 4.3) of the software programs you wish to use on any new computer are "compliant" to the operating system installed on that computer. This will be stated clearly on the front or the back of the software box.

Note: Windows Vista has serious problems with software compatibility and will not work with almost all non-current software versions, including Adobe software and pre-Vista games that use DirectX 9 or older. (As mentioned in Part 4 - Operating Systems).

Office Suites

Many new computers come with an Office Suite, such as:

• Microsoft Office
• WordPerfect Office, by Corel
• SmartSuite, by IBM
• Works, also by Microsoft

These may typically include a Word Processor, a Spreadsheet, a Database Manager, a Presentation Graphics application, a Bookkeeping/Accounting application, and a Desktop Publishing application. These are all the programs you would likely use to run a typical small business. But they are equally useful for just about everyone.

Word Processor

The most popular type of computer program, it is used by students, journalists, secretaries, programmers, executives, managers, business owners, and a long list of others. They make it possible to create all kinds of word documents from a simple letter to an entire book. The programs available include:

• Word, by Microsoft (by far the most popular)
• WordPerfect, by Corel (very popular, as well)
• Word Pro, by Lotus/IBM

Spreadsheet

This is typically a business application used to crunch numbers and organize then as needed. Spreadsheets can be used to create journals, ledgers, financial statements, as well as display graphs and charts. Popular programs include:

• Excel, by Microsoft (the most popular)
• Lotus 1-2-3, by Lotus/IBM

Database Manager

While the database is a fundamental type of raw information reservoir, the manager part of the program brings order. Programs include:

• Access, by Microsoft (the most popular)
• Paradox, by Corel
• Filemaker, by FileMaker

Presentation Graphics

This program is used by business people and students. Some programs include:

• PowerPoint, by Microsoft (the most popular)
• Corel Presentations, by Corel
• Flow, by IMSI

Bookkeeping & Accounting

Programs include:

• Quicken, by Intuit (very popular)
• QuickBooks, by Intuit (very popular)
• MS Money, by Microsoft
• MYOB Accounting, by MYOB

Desktop Publishing

Programs include:

• Publisher, by Microsoft (very popular)
• PageMaker, by Adobe (very popular)
• Visio, by Visio Corp.
• QuarkXPress, by Quark

Image Editors

A graphics tool, they can be used in graphic arts and on photographs. They include:

• PhotoShop, by Adobe (popular - requires time and effort to learn)
• Painter, by Corel
• PhotoDraw, by Microsoft

Email

Applications include:

• Outlook, by Microsoft (the most popular)
• Pegasus, by David Harris (free) (popular at some universities)
• Eudora, by Qualcomm (not especially user-friendly)
• CC Mail, by Lotus/IBM

Utilities

A variety of utilities are available to help your computer work better. They include:

• Norton Utilities, by Symantec
• McAfee Utilities, by Network Associates

Anti-Virus Programs

I strongly recommend you use an anti-virus program.They Include:

• Symantec (popular)
• McAfee (popular)
• SurfinGuard, by Finjan
• F-Prot, by Frisk

Firewall

I strongly recommend you use a firewall. They Include:

• ZoneAlarm, by Zone Labs
• VisNetic, by C C Software
• LockDown 2000, by LockDown Corp

Web Browser

In addition, to surf the Internet you will need a browser. The most popular are:

• Mozilla Firefox (www.mozilla.org/) is rapidly becoming a popular alternative to IE and Netscape. Surfing is easier with Firefox and it has functional advantages. Firefox has a small but devoted "community" of supporters. Even some Netscape employees volunteer their time at Mozilla. Note that some programs may not work quite as well with Firefox than with IE.
• Microsoft's Internet Explorer (IE) (http://www.microsoft.com/windows/ie/default.mspx) is the most popular browser in use today. I would recommend IE as an occassional back-up for Firefox, sometimes a website will function better with IE.
• Netscape Communicator (http://browser.netscape.com/ns8/) is also popular. Some people prefer Netscape's interface. I don't like the spyware aspect of Netscape.
• Opera (www.opera.com) is a browser with a very small devoted following. Opera also has advantages over IE and Netscape, especially its very quick loading speed. It has a good pop-up filter as well as other features. You may want to check it out first because Opera is not free. Cost is $39.00 US.

And Others

Of course, there are many other software programs you may wish to consider. When considering these, don't forget games. Computer games are ever popular and take on a wide dimension on the computer, including playing opponents online. But be warned, games require more space and power (not to mention your time).

[ Part 6 - Recommended Computer Systems ]