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I had a Sony VAIO laptop which needed fixed.
They had to install a new harddrive along with a new OS.
All my old files that were not backe dup were lost.
The PC will run, but it has no programs on it.
Several Questions:
1) Since there is no anti-virus, what anti-virus and other protection programs should I download and install (for free)...is there a list?
[b]2) Sadly it does not have Microsoft Office, which is vital for me. I need and use the word processor, excel, and powerpoint. I do not have an old copy, am I SOL, or is there anyway I can get my hands on an old product key or download one for free online. MOD CUT
3) Basically, what programs and in what order should I download so my PC is safe and useable?
4) Lastly, once I download MS Office and iTunes, will all my program files and documents I do have backed up be able to be read and accessed on the PC?
Thanks!
Last edited by linicx; 06-13-2011 at 05:14 PM..
Reason: MS key codes not available here. .
2) You should have the original documentation with the office key in it, I would imagine. If you don't, there isn't much you can do other than buying a new copy.
3) When I reinstall PCs, I install and update flash, adobe reader, java, an antivirus (I prefer Microsoft's security essentials, or Avira Antivir), and install every update possible through Windows Update. I also install Firefox, LogMeIn, Dropbox, and a few others that are for ease of use.
4)Yes, if you backed up any documents, music, etc. you can move them to the new drive without issue.
I had a Sony VAIO laptop which needed fixed.
They had to install a new harddrive along with a new OS.
All my old files that were not backe dup were lost.
Who is "they"? Sony? Do you still have a recovery disk or something that contains the programs?
1) Since there is no anti-virus, what anti-virus and other protection programs should I download and install (for free)...is there a list?
Currently using Microsoft Security Essentials and Malwarebytes. If a malware infection is very severe than I move on to using combofix, but MSE and MB work great for most people.
Quote:
[b]2) Sadly it does not have Microsoft Office, which is vital for me. I need and use the word processor, excel, and powerpoint. I do not have an old copy, am I SOL, or is there anyway I can get my hands on an old product key or download one for free online.
Tried asking people? If you know a college student or know someone that knows one, you may have some luck there. The licensing on eductional software is usually a lot more relaxed.
If not, you will just have to buy it again.
Quote:
3) Basically, what programs and in what order should I download so my PC is safe and useable?
MSE, MB, Firefox, Java, Flash plugin for FF, winrar, MS office, Photoshop (optional), Adobe reader. That should be it for most people.
Of course FF is a personal preference, but from a security standpoint, it's more secure than IE and more compatible than Google Chrome. I also suggest you install the ABP plugin for FireFox.
Quote:
4) Lastly, once I download MS Office and iTunes, will all my program files and documents I do have backed up be able to be read and accessed on the PC?
Yes if you backed up any.
Also there is probably no need to worry about drivers as Sony probably took care of that for you when reinstalling the OS.
I wouldn't bother with the hassle/expense/risk of getting a Office license for free. You can use Office applications online for free now through your Hotmail account.
Long story but Open Office has forked and most of the OO dev's have moved to Libre.
Ohh, I feel so old!
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