Editors' top tools for a new computer

Elsa Wenzel, Associate Editor

Updated April 04, 2008

A new computer means a clean slate--why clutter it up with inferior software? These apps offer all you need, from the essentials to the simply entertaining.

Related editors' top products lists:
Productivity apps | Tools for a new computer | Entertainment apps | Security apps | Graphics apps

Tools for a new computer

Product	Editors' rating	Price	Summary
Mac OS X 10.5 Leopard	8.0 Excellent Review date: 10/25/2007	Email me when this product is available	The grace of Leopard's interface enhancements makes productivity more pleasurable with a Mac, as more than 300 functional and fun features top off this update. Specs: 1 user, Complete package, 9 GB, PowerPC G4 867 MHz, 512 MB, 10.5, DVD-ROM, PowerPC G4, 867 MHz

Firefox 2	8.3 Excellent Review date: 10/23/2006	Download for free from CNET Download.com.	Mozilla Firefox 2 is a winner, beating Microsoft Internet Explorer 7 on security, features, and overall cool factor and deserving our Editors' Choice award. Specs:

ZoneAlarm Internet Security Suite 7	8.0 Excellent Review date: 01/16/2007	Download a free trial from CNET Download.com.	ZoneAlarm Internet Security Suite 7 provides the perfect balance between best-of-breed security protection and ease of use, providing the home user with superior protection that's light on system resources. Specs: Complete package, 450 MHz Intel Pentium III, 7.0, 450 MHz Intel Pentium III

Microsoft Vista Home Basic	7.0 Very good Review date: 01/24/2007	$95-$190 from 6 stores	Windows Vista Home Basic is essentially warmed-over Windows XP, Windows XP SP3. If you're currently happy with Windows XP SP2, we see no compelling reason to upgrade. On the other hand, if you need a new computer right now, Windows Vista is stable enough for everyday use. Specs: 1 PC, Complete package, 20 GB, Intel x86 1 GHz, 512 MB, DVD-ROM, Sound card, 32 MB video memory, Internet connection, DirectX 9.0 compatible graphics card, Intel x86, 1 GHz

OpenOffice 2	6.0 Good Review date: 12/06/2005	Download for free from Download.com	OpenOffice 2, the freeware version of Sun Microsystems StarOffice 8, is a great deal for home and small-businesses users who don't mind browsing online forums for tech support. But enterprise users are better served by StarOffice 8. Specs:

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