The Free and Open Source Software movement has produced some amazing pieces of software used by millions of people every day. From the Firefox browser to the LibreOffice suite of applications, there is free software to do nearly anything you'll need day-to-day at Southeast.

The Office of Web Design & Support recommends using free software if you do not want to purchase, or cannot afford, proprietary (paid) software. You can download an installer to automatically install our recommened applications (Windows only), or read about free software below. 

Office Suites

Google Docs

Google Docs allows you to create documents, spreadsheets and presentations online, upload your existing files, and share and collaborate in real time. Learn more with the Google Docs Feature Tour.

LibreOffice

LibreOffice is the free power-packed Open Source personal productivity suite that gives you six feature-rich applications for all your document production and data processing needs. LibreOffice features a simple-to-use yet powerful interface that is easy to personalize – Microsoft Office users will find the switch easy and painless, with a familiar look and feel. Compatible with all major competitors' file formats. You also can easily import files from Microsoft Word, Excel and PowerPoint and many other formats, and can easily save to Microsoft Office and other formats when needed.

Web Browsers

Google Chrome

The web has moved from viewing to doing. Google Chrome is a fast, simple browser that lets you make the most of the modern web. Google Chrome features Fast browsing, simple search, and a world of apps.

Mozilla Firefox

Mozilla Firefox is a browser created by a global non-profit dedicated to putting individuals in control and shaping the future of the web for the public good. Firefox features a new look, super speed, and even more awesomeness.

Instant Messaging and Email

Pidgin Instant Messenger

Pidgin is an easy to use and free chat client used by millions. Connect to AIM, MSN, Yahoo, and more chat networks all at once.

Thunderbird

Thunderbird, as a messaging system, is uniquely positioned as the tool that users can use to integrate as many of their communications as they want. Thunderbird is an email client that features a built-in RSS reader, address book, and more.

Utilities

Dropbox

Dropbox is a cloud-based backup, sync, and sharing tool. Any file you save to Dropbox also instantly saves to your computers, phones, and the Dropbox website. Shared folders allow people to work together on the same projects and documents. Dropbox protects your files without you needing to think about it.

7-Zip

7-Zip is an open source Windows utility for opening and saving archives. It supports ZIP files and 6 other archive file formats.

Adobe Reader

Adobe Reader allows you to view, print and collaborate on PDF files. While it is not the only application that can handle PDF files, it is developed by Adobe, the creators of the PDF file format.