You'll find them in the Microsoft Store, which is itself an app on the Windows 8 startup screen. Some of these apps have Windows 8 equivalents. Even if you've become a fan of fancy Web apps that perform many of the same functions, you should install these right onto your hard (or solid-state) drive. Without a doubt, these are the products a new Windows system requires first and foremost. We've covered the gamut in this list, including your new browser, modern communications, high-security tools, performance-enhancing utilities, entertainment necessities, an image editor, a tech-support helper, and of course, a full office suite to get you through the work day. You can see our recommendation in the list, but here's a hint: it rhymes with 'Morton' and ends with 'Antivirus.' Then, immediately install some antivirus software. The very first thing you should do is download and run The PC Decrapifier (Opens in a new window) or SlimComputer Free (Opens in a new window) they'll remove most of what you don't need. Windows usually comes festooned with what we lovingly call 'shovel-ware'-a load of extra software shoveled onto the drives either by the PC manufacturer to help you, or worse, paid-for-placement programs you'll never, ever use. You've pulled that shiny new laptop or desktop running Windows 8 out of the box.

How to Set Up Two-Factor Authentication.How to Record the Screen on Your Windows PC or Mac.How to Convert YouTube Videos to MP3 Files.How to Save Money on Your Cell Phone Bill.

How to Free Up Space on Your iPhone or iPad.How to Block Robotexts and Spam Messages.

Ninite pc download