A new laptop is a blank canvas. While modern operating systems include basic functionality, the right software transforms your laptop from a generic computer into a personalised productivity machine. This guide covers essential applications across key categories, with recommendations that balance capability, reliability, and cost.
We'll focus primarily on Windows laptops, as they require more software decisions than Macs (which include strong built-in apps) or Chromebooks (which rely on web apps). However, many recommendations have Mac equivalents noted.
Security Software
Protecting your laptop and data should be your first priority when setting up a new machine. While Windows includes built-in security features, additional tools provide extra layers of protection.
Antivirus Protection
Windows Defender, included with Windows 10 and 11, provides solid baseline protection. For most users, it's sufficient when combined with safe browsing habits. However, if you want additional features like VPN integration, password management, or enhanced web protection, consider:
- Bitdefender: Consistently top-rated with minimal performance impact
- Malwarebytes: Excellent second-opinion scanner and real-time protection
- Windows Defender: Free and increasingly capable (already installed)
Don't install multiple antivirus programs simultaneously—they conflict with each other and slow your system. One quality solution is better than several competing ones.
Password Manager
A password manager is essential for security and convenience. It generates strong, unique passwords for every account and remembers them for you.
- Bitwarden: Free and open-source with premium features available
- 1Password: Polished experience with excellent security
- Browser built-in: Chrome, Firefox, and Edge all offer password management
Productivity Software
Office Suite
You'll need tools for documents, spreadsheets, and presentations. Options range from free to subscription-based:
- Microsoft 365: The industry standard, subscription-based ($99/year), includes cloud storage and mobile apps
- Google Workspace: Free for personal use, excellent collaboration, requires internet
- LibreOffice: Free, open-source, fully capable offline alternative
Note-Taking
Digital notes sync across devices and are searchable—significant advantages over paper:
- Notion: Powerful and flexible, free for personal use
- OneNote: Free, included with Windows, syncs with Microsoft account
- Obsidian: Local-first markdown notes, excellent for knowledge management
- Free options are genuinely capable for most users
- Paid software often offers better support and integration
- Consider free trials before committing to subscriptions
- Student discounts are available for many applications
Web Browsers
Your browser is likely your most-used application. While Windows includes Edge (which is quite good), you may prefer alternatives:
- Firefox: Privacy-focused, independent, highly customisable
- Chrome: Fast, extensive extension library, syncs with Google account
- Brave: Privacy-focused Chromium browser with built-in ad blocking
- Microsoft Edge: Chromium-based, good integration with Windows
Whichever you choose, install an ad blocker like uBlock Origin to improve security and browsing experience.
Media and Communication
Media Player
The built-in Windows media players handle common formats, but for broader compatibility:
- VLC: Free, plays virtually any media format, lightweight
Communication
Modern communication tools connect you with colleagues, friends, and family:
- Discord: Voice, video, and text chat; popular for communities
- Zoom: Video conferencing standard for business and education
- Microsoft Teams: Business communication and collaboration
- WhatsApp Desktop: Messaging synced with your phone
Utilities
File Compression
Handle compressed archives you'll encounter when downloading software:
- 7-Zip: Free, handles all common formats including RAR and 7z
PDF Reader
While browsers handle basic PDF viewing, dedicated readers offer more features:
- Adobe Acrobat Reader: The standard, with annotation features
- Foxit Reader: Lightweight alternative
- Browser: Chrome and Edge handle basic PDF viewing well
Cloud Storage
Sync files across devices and maintain backups:
- OneDrive: Included with Windows, integrates with Microsoft 365
- Google Drive: 15GB free, syncs with Google Workspace
- Dropbox: Reliable and widely compatible
Choose one cloud storage provider as your primary and use it consistently. Having files scattered across multiple services creates confusion and sync issues.
System Maintenance
Backup Software
Windows includes File History and Windows Backup. Consider local backup to an external drive combined with cloud storage for comprehensive protection.
System Information
Monitoring your system helps identify issues early:
- HWiNFO: Detailed hardware information and real-time monitoring
- CrystalDiskInfo: Check hard drive/SSD health
What to Avoid
Some categories of software do more harm than good:
- Registry cleaners: Rarely helpful and can cause problems
- Driver updaters: Windows Update handles drivers; third-party tools often install wrong versions
- PC optimizers: Usually placebo at best, malware at worst
- Multiple antivirus programs: One is enough; more causes conflicts
Installation Best Practices
When installing software, follow these practices:
- Download only from official sources or reputable download sites
- Read installation screens carefully—decline bundled software
- Choose custom installation to control what's installed
- Uncheck options to set new homepages or search engines
- Restart when prompted to complete installation properly
With these essential applications installed, your laptop is ready for productive use. Add specialised software as your needs require, and periodically review installed programs to remove anything you no longer use.