Software We Trust & Recommend
Our honest picks for free and affordable software, iPhone and Android tips, and what to watch out for to keep all your devices safe.
Free & Recommended
Great free software for everyone
These are tools we personally use and recommend to our customers. All are free, reputable, and safe to download.
Malwarebytes Free
One of the best on-demand malware scanners available. Great for a second opinion scan alongside your main antivirus. Run it anytime you feel something is off.
malwarebytes.com ↗Microsoft Defender
Already built into Windows 10 and 11 - and it's actually very good. Make sure it's turned on. For most home users, Defender plus Malwarebytes is all you need.
microsoft.com ↗Mozilla Firefox
A fast, private, and trustworthy web browser. We recommend it as an alternative to Chrome, especially for users who want better privacy and fewer ads.
mozilla.org ↗7-Zip
The best free file compression tool. Use it to open zip files, create archives, and more. It's small, fast, and completely free - no ads, no tricks.
7-zip.org ↗LibreOffice
A full-featured, free alternative to Microsoft Office. Includes a word processor, spreadsheet, and presentation tool. Great for home users who don't want to pay for Office.
libreoffice.org ↗Bitwarden
A free, open-source password manager. Stop reusing the same password everywhere - Bitwarden stores all your passwords securely and fills them in automatically.
bitwarden.com ↗Antivirus Recommendations
What we recommend for antivirus
You don't always need to spend money on antivirus. Here's our honest take.
Windows Defender + Malwarebytes
For most home users, this free combination is all you need. Defender runs in the background and Malwarebytes catches what Defender misses. Simple, effective, and costs nothing.
Bitdefender Total Security
If you want a paid option with extra features like a VPN and parental controls, Bitdefender is our top pick. Excellent protection, low system impact, and regularly top-rated.
bitdefender.com ↗What to Avoid
We do not recommend McAfee or Norton for most users - they tend to slow computers down significantly and push aggressive upsells. Many "free" antivirus tools from unknown sources are actually malware themselves.
Behind the Scenes
Tools we use when we repair your computer
When we show up to fix your machine, here are some of the professional tools we use to diagnose and repair problems. We believe in being transparent about our process.
⚠️ Stay Safe
How to spot fake & dangerous software
One of the most common ways computers get infected is by accidentally installing fake or malicious software. Here's what to watch out for:
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Fake "Your computer has a virus!" pop-ups If a website pops up saying your computer is infected and tells you to call a number or download something immediately - it's a scam. Close the browser tab and don't call the number.
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Downloading software from search ads When searching for software like "download VLC" or "download Adobe Reader", the first results are often paid ads - some of which lead to fake sites. Always scroll to the official website or use trusted sources.
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Email attachments from unknown senders Never open attachments or click links in emails you weren't expecting - even if they look like they're from a company you know. When in doubt, call the company directly.
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"Free" software bundled with junk Many free programs try to install extra toolbars, browser hijackers, or other unwanted software during setup. Always choose "Custom" installation and uncheck anything you didn't ask for.
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Unsolicited tech support calls Microsoft, Apple, and your internet provider will never call you out of the blue to say your computer has a problem. These are scam calls. Hang up immediately.
Mobile Devices
iPhone & Android help
We help with smartphones and tablets too - not just computers. Whether it's an iPhone, iPad, or Android device, we can assist with setup, troubleshooting, and keeping it running smoothly.
iPhone & iPad (iOS)
We help with iCloud setup, Apple ID issues, app problems, software updates, email configuration, and syncing your iPhone with your computer. We also assist seniors who are new to Apple devices.
Android Phones & Tablets
Need help with your Samsung, Google Pixel, or other Android device? We assist with Google account setup, app installation, software updates, storage issues, and connecting to Wi-Fi and email.
Phone to Computer Transfer
We can help transfer photos, contacts, and files between your phone and computer - whether you're switching devices or just want a backup of your precious memories.
Mobile Security Tips
Keep your phone safe - we'll show you how to set a strong PIN, enable two-factor authentication, spot fake apps, and avoid common mobile scams that target smartphone users.