Free and/or Open Source Software is a key component in the way we help keep costs down for our customers.  31 Networks has it’s own list of recommended softwares to use across your business environment.  Many of these can be used to reduce or eliminate costly software expenses entirely.

  1. Open Office – A replacement for the commonly used Microsoft Office suite.  Depending on how much you use Microsoft Office and its advanced features, you may be able to cut a significant cost on software for your desktop.  Expect to save in the range of $150-$300 per user.
  2. Audacity – For those who like to edit, mix, and match music or audio together.  Audacity can replace many of your basic sound studio softwares.  Expect to save in the range of $60 – $500 depending on what you need to perform with your audio mastering.
  3. GiMP – Did anyone say a free graphics editor!  Consider the expense of Photoshop, plus all the filters!  Have filters already?  Consider the fact that you may be able to use them with GiMP.  Expect to save around $400 for the full version of Photoshop.
  4. Chrome – Google’s version of the web browser.  Fast, Furious, and Simple!  Great security features built into it.  Can’t go wrong if you can’t stand the Microsoft Internet Explo[d]er.
  5. Mozilla Thunderbird with Lightning Plugin – Want the functionality of Microsoft Outlook for free?  Use Thunderbird.  If you buy Outlook separately, this option can save you $150.
  6. PC Tools Anti-Virus Free – Although we cringe when people won’t spend money on security software, if you absolutely cannot, our PC Tools vendor provides their Anti-Virus for free!
  7. PC Tools ThreatFire – For those who may have an anti-virus software, PC Tools released their intelligent real-time security scanner which improves the effectiveness of your existing Anti-Virus solution.   Again it’s free!
  8. PC Tools Firewall Plus – For those of you who do not wish to trust Microsoft’s built in Windows Firewall, this is a solid FREE alternative.
  9. Adobe Acrobat Reader – A necessity regardless your platform.  PDFs are a common documentation format.  We all need it!
  10. Java – Another hidden necessity.  Many programs, including Open Office use Java.  Keep it current to be free of security risks.

If you would like us to consult or assist you with adoption of any Open Source or Free Software Alternatives please contact us!

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