(Jun 18, 2008)
Elsa Wenzel
Associate Editor
A new computer means a clean slate. Why clutter it up with inferior software? These tools offer what you need to get started, from the essentials to the simply entertaining.
Mac OS X 10.5 Leopard
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.
Price: $114.97 (check prices)
Review date: Oct 25, 2007
Excellent
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OpenOffice 2
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.
Price: Sorry, pricing not available
Review date: Dec 6, 2005
Good
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ZoneAlarm Internet Security Suite 7
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.
Price: Sorry, pricing not available
Review date: Jan 16, 2007
Excellent
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Firefox 3
If only for the speed, lightness of being, and security alone, Firefox remains our Editors' Choice for best Internet browser.
Price: Sorry, pricing not available
Review date: Jun 17, 2008
Excellent
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Microsoft Vista Home Basic
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.
Price: $89.72 - $139.95 (check prices)
Review date: Jan 24, 2007
Very good
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