Free Alternatives: Part 1

Free Alternatives: Part 1

Nikhil Rastogi, Oct 07, 2007 1343 hrs IST

Who says there's no free lunch? Here's one for your PC!

I've been many times asked why someone wouldn't want to use software that's bundled by default with Windows, as long as it does the job - why the extra effort to look for something else? Here's my response: Why bother changing the factory installed music system in the car (which is generally of lower quality) for a custom selected one (of incredibly much higher quality)?

If you understand personalization, flexibility, functionality, and efficiency, you'll know what I'm talking about. In fact, when it comes to Windows, some of the factory installed software is so crappy, it's amazing how someone can even make and use the software - not to mention the marketing and forcibly bundling it along with the OS.

Now, this guide isn't a list of all the freeware applications that one can find, but rather a list of alternatives that you can - and in some cases should - use in an everyday usage scenario. Important to note is that considering freeware to be inferior to paid software is a great fallacy - most companies that shell out free software are able to do so because their main source of income is other sources. Free software for them is only a great way to publicize oneself, while for some, its a service to the community.

First and foremost comes:-

Security
"A safe home is a welcome home" - so goes for your computer, as it houses almost everything from your tax returns to your first year old's birthday party pics. And yes, Windows doesn't do anything to protect you (it does, but not much). The problem with being the most owned OS in the world is that you've numerous attackers, who figure out ways around the present level of security that your system offers - or rather what your system offers by default. This is the sole reason why someone should go for a different solution.

In the world of security, you need 3 things: an antivirus, Firewall, and an Anti-Spyware program. Oh yes! you can't skip on even one here. Remember: your system is only as good as its weakest point! Luckily, there are plenty of free alternatives to choose from.

It's appalling that Windows doesn't have a built-in antivirus. So you have no option but to go for one. Instead of coughing up thousands of rupees, why not try a free alternative?

AVAST Home Edition
http://www.avast.com/
Avast is one 1 place above AVG Antivirus as it's the only freeware application that not only has strong virus scanning but also comes bundled with network protection, web shield, web script blocker, and P2P and IM Shields. It's a great freeware application that beats all the rest in protection without hogging system resources.

ZoneAlarm Firewall
http://www.zonelabs.com
ZoneAlarm is one of the best and the simplest firewall program that I've ever used. It has excellent control over blocking incoming and outgoing traffic from your PC to outside networks. However, some would find it annoying its asking which programs need to connect to the net. You can overcome this simply by checking the program to "Always Allow" mode. Some firewalls don't ask you which programs ought to connect to the internet, or they just simply allow connection without filtering. With ZoneAlarm, it brings the onus on you - and rightly so. After all, the user is the biggest security asset or threat to an OS. ZoneAlarm comes in standard firewall only mode and a suite version, which includes a virus scanner.