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Top 10 Basic Software for Laptop Every Beginner Needs

When you buy a new laptop, the first thing you should do is install the right software for laptop. The correct set of applications ensures that your device runs smoothly, stays secure, and boosts your productivity. Whether you are a student, professional, or casual user, having a proper laptop software list makes your digital journey easier. In this blog, we will cover the top 10 basic software for laptop every beginner must install. We will also explain installation steps in detail so you can set them up without hassle.

 

1. Google Chrome (Web Browser)

Why You Need It: A browser is the most important software for laptop because it connects you to the internet. Google Chrome is popular for its fast performance, secure browsing, and support for thousands of useful extensions. It also provides easy syncing between devices, so you can access bookmarks, history, and passwords anywhere. Beginners prefer Chrome because of its simple interface and reliability.

Installation Steps:

  1. Open the pre-installed browser on your laptop (like Edge or Safari).
     
  2. Search for Google Chrome download page.
     
  3. Select the version that matches your operating system (Windows or macOS).
     
  4. Download the installer file.
     
  5. Once downloaded, double-click on the file and follow the on-screen prompts to complete the setup.

2. Microsoft Office (Productivity Suite)

Why You Need It: This basic software for laptop is essential for creating documents, spreadsheets, and presentations. It is part of the best laptop software for students, teachers, and professionals. Microsoft Word, Excel, and PowerPoint come bundled in this suite, making it a must-have. It allows collaboration, advanced editing, and easy sharing of files.

Installation Steps:

  1. Purchase a Microsoft Office license or subscription (Office 365).
     
  2. Download the installer from your Microsoft account.
     
  3. Open the setup file and follow the installation wizard.
     
  4. After installation, sign in with your Microsoft account to activate.
     
  5. The software will be ready to use and can be pinned to your taskbar for quick access.

3. VLC Media Player (Media Player)

Why You Need It: Watching videos and listening to music requires a reliable media player. VLC is lightweight, free, and capable of playing almost any audio or video format. It also supports subtitles, streaming, and customizations for video playback. This makes it one of the most important software for laptop for entertainment.

Installation Steps:

  1. Search for VLC Media Player official site.
     
  2. Choose the version suitable for your laptop (Windows, Mac, or Linux).
     
  3. Download the installer and open it.
     
  4. Accept the terms and conditions and choose the installation folder.
     
  5. Complete the process and open VLC to enjoy media playback.

4. WinRAR (File Compression Tool)

Why You Need It: Compressing and extracting files is a daily task for most laptop users. WinRAR allows you to save space, secure files with passwords, and manage archives easily. It is part of every essential laptop software list because many files are shared in compressed formats like ZIP or RAR.

Installation Steps:

  1. Search for WinRAR installer based on your system architecture (32-bit or 64-bit).
     
  2. Download the setup file.
     
  3. Open the installer and select the destination folder.
     
  4. During setup, choose file associations such as .zip and .rar.
     
  5. Finish installation and right-click on any file to compress or extract with WinRAR.

5. Antivirus Software (Security)

Why You Need It: Security is the most important software for laptop users to avoid threats. Antivirus programs like Avast, Norton, or even built-in Windows Defender protect against viruses, malware, and phishing attacks. Without it, your laptop becomes vulnerable to hackers and unsafe downloads.

Installation Steps:

  1. Search for a trusted antivirus software of your choice.
     
  2. Download the installer file for your laptop system.
     
  3. Double-click to start the setup wizard.
     
  4. Accept terms, select installation options, and install.
     
  5. Once installed, update virus definitions and run a full system scan.
 

Read Also: Top 10 Laptop Brands in India: A Complete Buyer’s Guide for 2025

6. Google Drive or OneDrive (Cloud Storage)

Why You Need It: Cloud storage ensures you never lose files even if your laptop is damaged. These are among the best apps for laptop users who need file backup and remote access. Files stored in the cloud can be accessed anytime, anywhere, making collaboration easy.

Installation Steps:

  1. Choose your preferred cloud storage service (Google Drive or OneDrive).
     
  2. Download the desktop sync client.
     
  3. Run the installer and follow the setup instructions.
     
  4. Sign in with your account credentials.
     
  5. A folder will appear on your laptop where you can drag files to sync automatically.

7. Adobe Acrobat Reader (PDF Reader)

Why You Need It: PDF files are commonly used in education, business, and government. Acrobat Reader is the best app for laptop when it comes to reading, annotating, and printing PDFs. It also supports digital signatures and form-filling.

Installation Steps:

  1. Download the Acrobat Reader installer from Adobe’s official site.
     
  2. Open the file once downloaded.
     
  3. Select installation location and proceed.
     
  4. Follow prompts to finish installation.
     
  5. After setup, set Adobe Reader as your default PDF app for smooth access.

8. Zoom (Video Conferencing)

Why You Need It: Online meetings, remote work, and virtual classes require reliable communication software. Zoom is one of the best laptop software for video conferencing with features like screen sharing, chat, and recording. It is widely used by schools, businesses, and individuals.

Installation Steps:

  1. Search for Zoom desktop app.
     
  2. Download the installation file compatible with your laptop.
     
  3. Run the setup and follow instructions.
     
  4. Sign up or sign in with your account.
     
  5. Test your audio and video settings before your first meeting.

Read Also: 10 Common Laptop Problems and How to Troubleshoot Them

9. Notepad++ (Text and Code Editor)

Why You Need It: Notepad++ is a lightweight yet powerful text editor that is extremely useful for writing, editing, or coding. It supports multiple programming languages and provides features like syntax highlighting and multi-tab editing. This makes it an important software for laptop for students, writers, and developers.

Installation Steps:

  1. Search for Notepad++ official download.

  2. Choose the correct version for your laptop system.

  3. Download the installer and open it.

  4. Accept the terms and select the installation path.

  5. After installation, launch Notepad++ to start editing or coding.

 

10. CCleaner (System Optimization)

Why You Need It: Over time, laptops slow down due to unnecessary files and registry errors. CCleaner cleans junk, manages startup apps, and optimizes performance. This makes it an important software for laptop users who want to extend the lifespan of their device.

Installation Steps:

  1. Search for CCleaner official download.
     
  2. Download the free version installer.
     
  3. Run the setup file and follow installation prompts.
     
  4. Once installed, open CCleaner and choose which areas to clean.
     
  5. Run the cleaner and restart your laptop for better performance.
 

Get ABCom Rented Laptops Come Ready with Essential Software

At ABCom, we don’t just provide high-performance laptop on rent — we ensure you’re fully equipped from day one. Whether you're a student, remote worker, or business professional, our laptops come ready to go with all the essential software for laptop pre-installed, just like the ones highlighted in our latest blog. From productivity tools like Microsoft Office to system optimizers like CCleaner, we make sure your rented laptop is fast, secure, and ready for action. Rent smart, work smarter — only with ABCom.

 

Final Thoughts

Choosing the right software for laptop makes all the difference in performance and usability. From productivity to entertainment and security, this laptop software list ensures you are fully equipped. These best laptop software programs not only make your work easier but also protect and optimize your system. Beginners should start with these basic software for laptop and gradually explore other best apps for laptop depending on their needs.

If you want your device to run smoothly, installing these software for laptop options is the best step forward. This collection covers the most important software for laptop that every beginner should consider. With this software for laptop list, you can enjoy a seamless, productive, and safe digital experience.