Maybe Google really is out to control the universe.
With a computer, an operating system, and Google Pack software, you really don't need much else to explore the Internet, chat with friends, and get creative.
Google Pack is a selection of (mostly Google) software this is:
Google Earth
* Zoom from space to street level — tour the world
* Find maps, driving directions, hotels, restaurants, and more
Recommended! Fun and fascinating!
Norton Security Scan
* Detects and eliminates viruses and internet worms
* Free detection updates and scheduled scanning
While Norton isn't my favorite, if you have no virus protection, this is a start!
Google Desktop
* Find all your email, files, web history, and more
* Get all your personalized info in one place with Sidebar
I am not crazy about Google Desktop as I find it eats a lot of resources. I'd avoid this one unless you have a real need.
Mozilla Firefox with Google Toolbar
* Browse the web quickly and securely
* Switch between pages quickly with tabbed browsing
The browser preference of Geeks everywhere.
Adobe Reader
* View, print, and search PDF files via a redesigned interface
* Secure your documents and collaborate via online, real-time meetings
You'll need Adobe Reader to view PDFs, a standard method of sharing documents online.
Skype
* Make free voice and video calls to anyone else on Skype
* Call landlines and mobile phones at pretty low rates
I love Skype for video phone calls!
StarOffice (broadband recommended)
* Word processing, spreadsheet, presentation, and more
* Includes Java™ Runtime Environment
Again, highly recommended by the open source crowd. Why spend hundreds on Microsoft Office when StarOffice is available for nothing?
Google Toolbar for Internet Explorer
* Search from any web page and autofill forms
* Block annoying pop-ups
I like Google Toolbar - of all the toolbar options, it is the most useful, and least intrusive.
Spyware Doctor Starter Edition
* Detects and removes spyware, adware, trojans and keyloggers
* Includes Smart Updates and scheduling to protect your PC
Again, you want some spyware package on your computer. This one is as good as any!
Picasa
* Find, edit, and share your photos in seconds
* Easily remove red eye and fix photos
I use Shutterfly, but photo sharing services are very much the same. A must if you plan to share photos with family and friends.
Google Photos Screensaver
* Display photos from your PC and photo sharing sites
* Watch cinematic slideshows
Google Talk
* Connect with your friends via IM or free voice calls
* Send and receive files and voice messages easily and quickly
I use Google talk for IMs. Nice, simple.IM is a great way to stay in touch if you're on your computer a lot.
Real Player
* Play popular media formats, organize music and videos
* Transfer music to iPod and other portable media players
I am not crazy about Real Player, but again, you will want a media player on your computer. Of course, Windows comes equipped with Windows Media Player, so unless you have a reason to want Real Player, no need to download this one.
With a computer, an operating system, and Google Pack software, you really don't need much else to explore the Internet, chat with friends, and get creative.
Google Pack is a selection of (mostly Google) software this is:
- Software specifically selected by Google
- Always free - no trial versions or spyware
- Ready to use in just a few clicks
Google Earth
* Zoom from space to street level — tour the world
* Find maps, driving directions, hotels, restaurants, and more
Recommended! Fun and fascinating!
Norton Security Scan
* Detects and eliminates viruses and internet worms
* Free detection updates and scheduled scanning
While Norton isn't my favorite, if you have no virus protection, this is a start!
Google Desktop
* Find all your email, files, web history, and more
* Get all your personalized info in one place with Sidebar
I am not crazy about Google Desktop as I find it eats a lot of resources. I'd avoid this one unless you have a real need.
Mozilla Firefox with Google Toolbar
* Browse the web quickly and securely
* Switch between pages quickly with tabbed browsing
The browser preference of Geeks everywhere.
Adobe Reader
* View, print, and search PDF files via a redesigned interface
* Secure your documents and collaborate via online, real-time meetings
You'll need Adobe Reader to view PDFs, a standard method of sharing documents online.
Skype
* Make free voice and video calls to anyone else on Skype
* Call landlines and mobile phones at pretty low rates
I love Skype for video phone calls!
StarOffice (broadband recommended)
* Word processing, spreadsheet, presentation, and more
* Includes Java™ Runtime Environment
Again, highly recommended by the open source crowd. Why spend hundreds on Microsoft Office when StarOffice is available for nothing?
Google Toolbar for Internet Explorer
* Search from any web page and autofill forms
* Block annoying pop-ups
I like Google Toolbar - of all the toolbar options, it is the most useful, and least intrusive.
Spyware Doctor Starter Edition
* Detects and removes spyware, adware, trojans and keyloggers
* Includes Smart Updates and scheduling to protect your PC
Again, you want some spyware package on your computer. This one is as good as any!
Picasa
* Find, edit, and share your photos in seconds
* Easily remove red eye and fix photos
I use Shutterfly, but photo sharing services are very much the same. A must if you plan to share photos with family and friends.
Google Photos Screensaver
* Display photos from your PC and photo sharing sites
* Watch cinematic slideshows
Google Talk
* Connect with your friends via IM or free voice calls
* Send and receive files and voice messages easily and quickly
I use Google talk for IMs. Nice, simple.IM is a great way to stay in touch if you're on your computer a lot.
Real Player
* Play popular media formats, organize music and videos
* Transfer music to iPod and other portable media players
I am not crazy about Real Player, but again, you will want a media player on your computer. Of course, Windows comes equipped with Windows Media Player, so unless you have a reason to want Real Player, no need to download this one.
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