We encourage the use of OpenSource and free applications which can not only save money...(as in free software), but can be custiomized to fit your needs. We also encourage donations to the developers of these projects to keep them going, as well as purchasing support options and pro versions where possible. Here is a short list of some of the best free or OpenSource programs around:

Anti-Virus, Anti-Spyware, & Malware:

Microsoft Security Essentials

OpenSource Firewall:

www.pfsense.com and www.bsdperimeter.com

CD and DVD burning:

cdburnerxp.se

Instant Messenger and Social Media client:

www.digsby.com

Image & Photo editing software (like Photoshop for beginners).

paint.net

PDF Reader

www.foxitsoftware.com

Password Management

keepass.info

Web Browser

www.mozilla.com/firefox

Screen Recording /Capture

CamStudio.org