New laptop, fresh install — now what? Before you pay for bloated suites or download "PC optimizer" malware disguised as utilities, install these twenty free programs from official sites only. They cover security, files, media, and productivity without nagware if you decline bundled offers carefully.

Security and passwords

Bitwarden — password manager across devices. Windows Defender — leave enabled. Optional Malwarebytes free for on-demand scans — not alongside second real-time AV.

Files and system utilities

7-Zip — every archive format. Everything — instant filename search. TreeSize Free — find what filled your SSD. WinMerge or Meld — compare text files. Rufus — bootable USB creation.

Media

VLC — plays anything. Audacity — audio editing. GIMP — photo editing when Photoshop absent. HandBrake — video transcoding.

Productivity and browsers

LibreOffice — Word/Excel alternative. Obsidian or Notion — notes. ShareX — screenshots beyond Win+Shift+S. Firefox or Brave — second browser for separating work/personal profiles.

Developer-adjacent

VS Code, Git for Windows, Windows Terminal — if you write code or use CLI tools.

Install hygiene

Custom install only — uncheck toolbar offers and trial AV bundles. Download from official domains, not search ad links. Pin only what you use weekly to taskbar; bloat starts at install time.