DOWNLOAD FOR FREE IN 2018

Software, Apps & Tools You Need TODAY To Prevent Problems TOMORROW

Technology is changing so fast it can feel bewildering. Every year sees new devices, threats, software and apps that make it seem like we’re in a sci-fi future as imagined in the 1960s (minus flying cars).

It’s hard to make predictions beyond the next few months, but we can make good assumptions about how you can prepare yourself for 2018, helping you thrive no matter what Microsoft, Google and others throw at you. Which is why we’ve prepared this guide to the free software, apps and downloads we think you’ll need.

Some of these tools will be new to you, others will be old favourites. But they’ve all got something special that’ll make them essential in 2018. Several are excellent replacements for programs that are due to close. There are also tools that put you back in control of your PC should Microsoft’s upcoming changes not suit you. And we couldn’t ignore security software that will protect you from 2018’s biggest threats. But there’s more to download from the web than programs. In the final section of this feature we recommend a miscellany of downloadable treats that will prove more useful than ever next year. These include free fonts, maps, BBC shows, photos and Windows 10 themes. Before you get started, we recommend you install a tool that automatically updates software to the latest (and theoretically safest) version. Our choice is Kaspersky Software Updater, which is free from www.snipca.com/26410. You already have this tool if Kaspersky Internet Security (winner of our past nine antivirus tests) is installed on your computer. If not, please turn to page 68 for our exclusive reader offer, which knocks 43 per cent off the price.