Stuck with Microsoft.

Suppose you inherited a PC or acquired a laptop, but it only runs Microsoft software and for any number of complex reasons you can’t change that. What would you do?

How would you make a Microsoft based system somewhat friendlier?

Obviously my answer would normally be to install Linux, but I will try to help out those stuck with Microsoft as their main operating system.

Firstly, install AVG’s free edition and scan the machine immediately.

Next download Chrome and Firefox, and then relegate Internet Explorer to the realms of unused software, forever to be forgotten, lest you wish to collect viruses and other malware.

After that I would install 7-Zip, Abiword, Ccleaner, Everything, Foxit’s Reader, ImgBurn, VLC and Belarc’s Advisor.

If I had to use a spreadsheet and wanted only free software on the machine then Openoffice is the choice.

Finally, I would think about installing K Lite’s Codec Pack.

All of that won’t turn a Microsoft dog’s breakfast into something wonderful, but it should be less hard work, if you are lucky.