The Most Popular Programs for Windows in Their Categories

Are you interested in enhancing your Windows PC with the best software that is available on the market? You’ve come to the right place! I have spent quite some time testing and analyzing the most popular Windows programs, and as this guide is a result of it. Thus, let us go through the best 10 across different categories and change the way you interact with your Windows PC.

Project management assistant: Microsoft Project

Microsoft Project is the best when it comes to managing different aspects of complex schedules. First released in 1984, it changed the way industries around the world managed projects. It is a must-have for professionals who have to juggle multiple timelines and resources, and manage big teams.

Microsoft Project has a myriad of features and that is probably why a lot of project managers, team leaders, and any business professional use it. What is there for you? The possibility to handle project activities of a project including timelines visualized in Gantt charts, monitoring the progress, timelines, and setting goals. Additionally, the fact that it is compatible with all Microsoft 365 tools should be noted as it allows the use of all tools to their optimal efficiency without additional time wasted. If you are not using Windows and you need to open a Microsoft Project file, then use this .mpp file viewer.

Antivirus protection: Norton 360 

Norton 360 was developed in 2007, and since its introduction, it has garnered massive acclaim in terms of how effective it is in combating viruses. It is perfect for anyone looking for comprehensive protection measures but without all the technical complexities.

Beyond simple virus coverage it provides different layers of safety. In addition to a VPN and password managers, Norton 360 also makes use of cloud technology. You will also get advanced threat detection incorporating dark web analysis and safe online payment services. 

Video editing wizard: Adobe Premiere Pro

Since its debut in 2003, Adobe Premiere Pro has revolutionized how we edit videos. Whether you’re a YouTube content creator, professional filmmaker, or marketing specialist, this powerful editor puts Hollywood-grade tools at your fingertips.

The magic of Premiere Pro lies in its versatility. You can edit anything from short social media clips to feature-length films with professional-grade precision. Its timeline-based editing, advanced color grading tools, and seamless integration with other Adobe Creative Cloud apps make it a complete package. The latest versions even include AI-powered features that can automatically adjust audio levels and create custom animations.

Graphics design golden standard: Adobe Photoshop 

Photoshop, which has been in existence since 1990, refuses to cede its position as the most authoritative image editing app. It doesn’t matter if you are a professional photographer or a casual user, whether you’re boosting your social media account or looking for creative ways to design graphic work posts, Photoshop has everything that you need.

The possibilities this app provides to us are immense. One can do photo manipulation, digital painting, graphic design, and even designing in 3D space. Plus, Adobe keeps up with trends and has recently added features such as AI neural filters and cloud replacement that allow difficult edits to be done at a click or two. Yes, it may seem like there is a lot to take in, for a beginner. But for someone from the image editing industry, the time spent mastering Adobe Photoshop is well worth it.

Music production: FL Studio

FL Studio has been around since 1997, and one of the most appealing things about it is that it appeals to all types of audiences, from wannabe producers to veterans of the industry. For someone who just wants to make music, it’s great because it’s easy to navigate while offering powerful features.

From a simple drum machine, it has evolved into what is now a full-fledged digital audio workstation. It allows the user to create, develop, enhance, turn into reality, and finally finish professional quality tracks. Its technique of pattern-based music creation became widely used in the hip-hop and the electronic music industry. One of the benefits is that for Windows users it’s free for life.

File compression: WinRAR

Ever had WinRAR bother you with “Your trial period is up” messages? No wonder, as it has been around since 1995. If you happen to be a Windows user and have never compressed a file, this would be the best tool to help you with the task. Backing up your documents or uploading heavy files isn’t a problem at all, thanks to this program.

With WinRAR you can compress files in many formats, extract files from encrypted archives, and even manage large compressed files by splitting them into smaller archived pieces. Plus, you can be sure that damaged archives don’t get lost, since it includes a repair feature. There may be free substitutes available, but they aren’t as good in comparison to WinRAR in terms of stability as well as characteristics.

Screen recording: OBS Studio

This open source software studio was released in 2012, and ever since then has become the go-to screen recording application for streamers, content creators, and professionals in the recording industry. The best part about it is that it is open sourced free software.

Broadcasters can record their entire screen or only a portion of it, while also being able to record video game sessions, stream on Twitch or Youtube as well as having the ability to set up as many scenes as they like for their broadcasts. 

Anything ranging from a webcam, window, microphone, and so on can be captured in one single modular application. Even though it may take some time adapting to it, the power of OBS Studio is comparable to that of expensive premium software.

PDF management basics: Adobe Acrobat DC

A well-known PDF (or Portable Document Format), is one of the most commonly used file formats across industries, countries, and ages. The very first Adobe Acrobat edition was launched in 1993 and contained some essential features like PDF Viewer and Editor. However, now it can offer many features that meet the needs of all business sizes, whether small scale or large scale.

The unique point about Adobe is that you have complete control to optimize document specifics. Apart from just managing a PDF, its compatibility with mobile devices saves the need to open a PC, which in turn results in a faster work process.

PC optimization: CCleaner

CCleaner has been around since 2004 and people still stick to it due to its proficiency. If in case your computer starts to lag, the workflow can easily be interrupted and CCleaner efficiently eliminates that problem without any manipulation from your side.

Don’t be afraid, though. It will not delete something important. The program focuses on cleaning temporary files, internet cookies, cache, and browsing history to free up space on your computer and enhance privacy. Additionally, it disables unnecessary applications that run at startup so as to not make you stare at the loading screen for too long. 

Conclusion

Technology doesn’t remain at one spot. New competitors constantly emerge, forcing even the best to evolve and advance. What about you? Do you still use any of those apps? Share your experiences and let’s have more of this discussion!