Best Free Open Source Software of 2019 for your Home or Small Business

The term OPEN SOURCE refers to software whose source code is freely available to download, edit, use and share, with no copyright restrictions and that's why we love it.

You will find open source versions of almost every software imaginable - from Operating system, office suites, media to accounting and productivity. With that in mind, here's our pick of the very best open source software.

Operating System: Linux

Lets Start with the main thing you need first is a Operation System for your PC or Laptop .In the past 10 years the gap between the features in all the major operating systems has become smaller and smaller.Linux operating systems aren't just for geeks and nerds. Anyone can install Linux and use it for their everyday computing needs including browsing the web, watching Netflix, typing letters, sorting home finances, video editing, photo editing and managing music collections. There is a lot of option to choose form for everyone from Novice to System Administrator to  Hackers and Security professionals everyone love Linux as their OS.

Ubuntu: One of the most popular distros for good reason, Ubuntu is an open source software operating system that runs from the desktop, to the cloud, to all your internet connected things.

Ubuntu is officially released in three editions: Desktop, Server, and Core (for internet of things devices and robots). Ubuntu is a popular operating system for cloud computing. Ubuntu is released every six months, with long-term support (LTS) releases every two years. The latest release is 18.10 ("Cosmic Cuttlefish"), and the most recent long-term support release is 18.04 LTS ("Bionic Beaver"), which is supported until 2028.  Download form here

 

Linux Mint is a great ‘default’ distro for new Linux users, as it comes with a lot of the software you’ll need when switching from Mac or Windows, such as LibreOffice, the favoured productivity suite of Linux users. It also has better support for proprietary media formats, allowing you to play videos, DVDs and MP3 music files out of the box. Why not give it a go today.  

Office software: LibreOffice

The next is you required your productivity tool and here comes to the rescue. LibreOffice is a powerful office suite – its clean interface and feature-rich tools help you unleash your creativity and enhance your productivity.  LibreOffice is a full suite of workplace software package, together with wonderful apps for text documents, spreadsheets, presentations, and databases. These are all absolutely compatible with the most recent Microsoft file formats, thus you’ll haven't any hassle sharing files that employment with users of Word, Excel, PowerPoint, and Access.

LibreOffice includes several applications that make it the most powerful Free and Open Source office suite on the market. You can download it form clicking to their official link here .

 

Email client: Mozilla Thunderbird

Email is key part of our everyday life Thunderbird is a free and open source email, news feed, chat, and calendaring client, that’s easy to set up and customize. One of the core principles of Thunderbird is the use and promotion of open standards - this focus is a rejection of our world of closed platforms and services that can’t communicate with each other. We want our users to have freedom and choice in how they communicate. You can download it form clicking to their official link here .

Web browser: Mozilla Firefox

Download Mozilla Firefox, a free Web browser. Firefox is created by a global non-profit dedicated to putting individuals in control online. Firefox is available for Microsoft Windows, macOS, Linux, BSD, illumos and Solaris operating systems. Its sibling, Firefox for Android, is also available .

You can download it form clicking to their official link here even you can download in your onw language .

 

Accounting / Small Business Accounting: GnuCash

GnuCash is personal and small-business financial-accounting software, freely licensed under the GNU GPL and available for GNU/Linux, BSD, Solaris, Mac OS X and Microsoft Windows.

Designed to be easy to use, yet powerful and flexible, GnuCash allows you to track bank accounts, stocks, income and expenses. As quick and intuitive to use as a checkbook register, it is based on professional accounting principles to ensure balanced books and accurate reports. Download here

Clean Your System and Free Disk Space: BleachBit

When your computer is getting full, BleachBit quickly frees disk space. When your information is only your business, BleachBit guards your privacy. With BleachBit you can free cache, delete cookies, clear Internet history, shred temporary files, delete logs, and discard junk you didn't know was there. Designed for Linux and Windows systems, it wipes clean thousands of applications including Firefox, Internet Explorer, Adobe Flash, Google Chrome, Opera, Safari,and more. Beyond simply deleting files, BleachBit includes advanced features such as shredding files to prevent recovery, wiping free disk space to hide traces of files deleted by other applications, and vacuuming Firefox to make it faster. Better than free, BleachBit is open source. Download link

Password manager: KeePass Password Safe

Today you need to remember many passwords. You need a password for the Windows network logon, your e-mail account, your website's FTP password, online passwords (like website member account), etc. etc. etc. The list is endless. Also, you should use different passwords for each account. Because if you use only one password everywhere and someone gets this password you have a problem... A serious problem. The thief would have access to your e-mail account, website, etc. Unimaginable.

KeePass is a free open source password manager, which helps you to manage your passwords in a secure way. You can put all your passwords in one database, which is locked with one master key or a key file. So you only have to remember one single master password or select the key file to unlock the whole database. The databases are encrypted using the best and most secure encryption algorithms currently known (AES and Twofish). Download link

Safeguard Your Data/ Disk Encryption: 

DiskCryptor is an open encryption solution that offers encryption of all disk partitions, including the system partition. DiskCryptor is file and drive encryption software with all the whistles and bells you will ever need. Just like in TrueCrypt, DiskCrypror can encrypt any of your files, system drives and other external devices like CD’s and thumb drives. Moreover, DiskCryptor can encrypt your data with different encryption algorithms like AES (Advanced Encryption Standard), Twofish, Serpent and also uses a combination of cascaded algorithms for increased security. If you are previously using TrueCrypt for your encryption purposes, then DiskCryptor is the closest free option available with active development and support.

Media player: VLC Media Player

VLC media player (commonly known as VLC) is a free and open-source, portable, cross-platform media player and streaming media server.VLC offers everything you could need from a media player - comprehensive format support, streaming, downloading and much more download here

 

Photo editor: GIMP

GIMP is a cross-platform image editor available for GNU/Linux, OS X, Windows and more operating systems. It is free software, you can change its source code and distribute your changes.

Whether you are a graphic designer, photographer, illustrator, or scientist, GIMP provides you with sophisticated tools to get your job done. You can further enhance your productivity with GIMP thanks to many customization options and 3rd party plugins.Download Link

Video editor: Shotcut

Shotcut is a free, open source, cross-platform video editor. Shotcut is a free, open source, cross-platform video editor for Windows, Mac and Linux. Major features include support for a wide range of formats; no import required meaning native timeline editing; Blackmagic Design support for input and preview monitoring; and resolution support to 4k. More features and download link here

Audio editor: Audacity

Free, open source, cross-platform audio software. Audacity is an easy-to-use, multi-track audio editor and recorder for Windows, Mac OS X, GNU/Linux  Download Here

Remote Access Software

Access other computers or allow another user to access your computer securely over the Internet. Remote desktop software is really useful for lots of situations, from helping your dad who lives 500 miles away, work through a computer issue, to remotely administering from your Melbourne office the dozens of servers you run in a USA data center! etc

Remote Utilities

Runs on Windows only and Great for both spontaneous and unattended remote access this also supports portable mode and doesn't require router port changes. This software is Free for both personal and business use which lets you connect to up to 10 computers for free.

No Machine 

Wherever your desktop is, you can control it and remotely access what’s on it from the other side of the world in a few simple clicks. A free remote desktop utility for personal use, NoMachine is designed to suit anyone who uses multiple computers and devices and wants to securely access them and their content using one simple tool. It's just one software package to be installed on the computer you are connecting from and on the remote computer you want to connect to. If you want a tool that enables you to work from home, regardless of what network you are connecting on, and which lets you stream multi-media files, access and edit documents, provide remote support to friends, print, transfer files and more, you've come to the right place. Download NoMachine and start using all these great features today.

Chrome Remote Desktop

The host computer has to have the Chrome browser installed, Lets you remote into the computer even when the user isn't logged in,Installs quickly.Has multi-monitor support and works well for unattended and on-demand remote access also Lets you remote into the computer via an app.Works on Windows, macOS, and Linux download link 

                            

What did we miss?

Are there open source application that we missed? These are just a few of the best open source/ free software I use for my personal use. They offer terrific value and since most of them are open source they are more secure for your privacy and protection in this digital age. 

We think of this as a work in progress, so if you believe there are software that should be added to this list, please let us know in the comments section below.

If you like this post feel free share and if you want to connect with me just add me up on LinkedIn  Faysal Hasan https://au.linkedin.com/in/faysalhasan

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CISCO CCNA Cyber Ops Certification

Another achievement for the love of #Cyber #Security completed two exam to become Cisco Certified Network Associate Cyber Ops (CCNA Cyber Ops) Thanks to my family, work colleague and my networks for encouragement and support. #CCNA #CyberOps #CyberSecurity 

My review for the Cert: This cert is for security analyst interested in Security Operation Center to become CISCO Cyber Ops it required to pass two exam.

First one is like knowing networking , cryptography , general info sec concepts, web attack, linux and windows commands, file system, logs and different type of model that deal with threat.

Second exam is implementing like type of Security operations monitoring tools, incident detection,analysis and playbooks, threat hunting, Threat scoring, incident response and automation, Computer Forensics, Network Intrusion Analysis, Data and event analysis etc

Loved studying the CISCO books but felt amazing when setup LAB in my pc Three VM First is vulnerable linux pc (metasploitable vm) Second for Monitoring (Security Onion ) Linux which have monitoring tools included and Third for Hacking/Breaking the other vulnerable system using (KALI Linux) which have industry standard awesome tools included. Also love  reading Computer Security Incident Handling Guide: NIST 800-61 doc.

CCNA Cyber Ops Exam Details :
https://learningnetwork.cisco.com/community/certifications/ccna-cyber-ops

Study Material for first Exam: SECFND Study Material
Understanding Cisco Cybersecurity Fundamentals (SECFND) v1.0
https://learningnetwork.cisco.com/community/certifications/ccna-cyber-ops/secfnd/study-material


Study Material for Second Exam: SECOPS Study Material
Implementing Cisco Cybersecurity Operations (SECOPS) v1.0
https://learningnetwork.cisco.com/community/certifications/ccna-cyber-ops/secops/study-material

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Password what to use and how to use it ?

Now a days Passwords for people is like we don't love them but can't live without them. So, here is something that help you to stay secure. I am sure that you know many of the following widely available and well-known guidelines for creating more secure passwords, but just in case, here is a recap:

1. Use a mix upper- and lowercase letters, numbers, and special characters for example, Th1$1$@Samp!3
2. Replace some letters with numbers (for example, replace i with 1 and e with 3)
3. Do not include your name or other personal information (such as spouse /children, street address, school, birthdays, and anniversaries).
4. Use nonsense phrases, misspellings, substitutions, or before-and-after words and phrases combining two unrelated words or phrases, such as “Avangers007” "Highway2R@bbitH0le" "TheE4gl3hasALandD0wnUnder"
5. Combine two words by using a special character for example, P1zza&Cok3 Tra1n@ndT1ck3t, H4rry!P0t3r.
6. Use a combination of all the other tips in this list for example, “Harry porter becomes H4rry!P0t3r, Pizza and coke becomes P1zza&Cok3 etc.
7. Do not use repeating patterns between changes for example, password1, password2, password3, Most importantly 123456789 should never be used as password.
8. Do not use the same passwords for work and personal accounts.
9. Do not use passwords that are too difficult to remember.(keep it 8-14 character)
10. Use a password manager like KeePass Password Safe, LastPass, Dashlane, Sticky Password, Roboform, TrueKey, Symantec Norton Identity Safe etc

Finally “A password should be like a toothbrush. Use it every day; change it regularly; and DON’T share it with friends.”

Faysal Hasan - is a IT System Engineer with a passion for security. He worked in information technology service delivery for more than 7 years. He received his Bachelor in IT from Southern Cross University, Australia and has earned numerous technical certifications throughout his career which include MCSE, 2xMCSA, CCNA Cyber Ops, VMWare Data Center, Citrix Xen App, Mcafee Endpoint Protection, ITIL v3,. He  also received many training that include SPLUNK, Service NOW, Prince 2 project management etc, He  is currently working as System Engineer in Enterprise Operations looking after technology infrastructure for Victoria Police.

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Adobe Elements, Adobe Acrobat Reader, "Attempt to access invalid address" in Windows 10, Windows 7

Adobe Elements, Adobe Acrobat Reader, error message "attempt to access invalid address  in Windows 10, Windows 7

Try this Reg fix 

The key is "HKEY_LOCAL_MACHINE\System\CurrentControlSet\Control\Session Manager\Memory Management" 

Look for entry MoveImages 
if not there create new DWORD and it will be hexadecimal value 0x0 by default
If you set the key to 1 instead of 0 and restart your machine it resolved this error message


For Office 365 Attempt to access invalid address

The issue is for EMET (Enhanced Mitigation Experience Toolkit) which  causing the problems.
Try upgrading to new version from here https://technet.microsoft.com/en-us/security/jj653751
or uninstalling EMET doesn't work 
Then try this reg fix :

HKEY_LOCAL_MACHINE\SOFTWARE\Microsoft\Windows NT\CurrentVersion\Image File Execution Options\
For any process used by MS product it will have a value for 'MitigationOption' (eg excel.exe, infopath.exe etc) 

Set 'MitigationOption' to 0 or delete it.

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Google Apps for your small business

I've been using Google Apps for my company, and it's really helped my team work more quickly and efficiently. I think that you'd also benefit from trying it out for your business.

Google Apps is a cloud-based productivity suite that includes Gmail for professional email, Drive for online storage, Hangouts for video meetings, Calendar for scheduling and Docs for editing files. 

I especially like how easy it is to get things done and work with others from anywhere, using any device that I choose. I've also found Apps to be highly cost effective.

Google Apps helps teams communicate, collaborate and get things done from anywhere and on any device. It's simple to set up, use and manage, so your business can focus on what really matters.

Millions of organisations around the world count on Google Apps for professional email, file storage, video meetings, online calendars, document editing and more.

Watch a video or find out more here.

These are some highlights:

Business email for your domain:

Looking professional matters, and that means communicating as you@yourcompany.com. Gmail’s simple, powerful features help you build your brand while getting more done.

Access from any location or device:

Check emails, share files, edit documents, hold video meetings and more, whether you’re at work, at home or in transit. You can pick up where you left off from a computer, tablet or phone.

Enterprise-level management tools:

Robust admin settings give you total command over users, devices, security and more. Your data always belongs to you, and it goes with you, if you switch solutions.

Start free trial

Faysal Hasan - is a IT System Engineer has with a passion for security. He worked in information technology service delivery for more than 7 years. He received his Bachelor in IT from Southern Cross University, Australia and has earned numerous technical certifications throughout his career. He is currently working as the System Engineer in Enterprise Operations looking after technology infrastructure for Victoria Police.

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Windows 10 Change your Default Browser

Change Your Default Browser

If you upgraded to Windows 10 from Windows 7 or 8, you'll notice that Microsoft Edge is now your default browser, even if Chrome or Firefox was your default before. Edge Browser is a bit faster than Chrome or Firefox, but doesn't provide the level of extensibility that its competitors offer. If you are a Chrome or Firefox user, you'll want to change your default right away.

1. Navigate to settings.

2. Click System.

  

3. Select Default apps from the left pane.

                    

4. Click the Microsoft Edge icon under the "Web browser" header.

 

5. Select the browser you want as your new default (ex: Chrome).

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Windows 10 how to Disable User Account Control

Isn't it annoying every time you try to remove or install something windows ask for your account username and password or at least you have to press yes now you get say goodbye to User account control pop up. Here is how to Disable User Account Control

Windows wants to wag a finger at you every time you try to install a program or change a vital setting by popping up a dialog box and making you click Ok to continue. Why warn  you if you already know what you're doing? Good question. Disable User Account control to stop the needless, annoying dialog boxes.

1. Search for "user account control" in the search box.

2. Open "Change User Account Control settings."

3. Slide the slider down to "Never notify" and click Ok.

4. Click Yes when prompted.

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Windows 10 how to Enable System Protection / Create a Restore Point

Enable System Protection / Create a Restore Point

What happens if you install a bad piece of software or a defective driver and your computer starts acting strangely or you can't even boot. You'll want to revert Windows 10 to the previous system restore point, which will turn back the clock on your drivers, programs and settings to a time when the system worked perfectly. However, Windows 10 comes with system protection disabled. If you want to protect yourself -- and you should -- set up restore points following the instructions below.

1. Search for "restore point" in the Windows search box.

2. Launch "Create a restore point" from the results. You should see a list of available drives.

3. Select the system drive and click Configure. The system drive is usually the C: drive and has the word "(System)" written after its volume name.

4. Toggle Restore Settings to "Turn on system protection," set the maximum disk space usage by moving the slider and click Ok. We recommend leaving 2 or 3 percent for restore pints but you may be able to get away with the lowest (1 percent).

5. Click Create so that you create an initial restore point right away.

6. Name the initial restore point when prompted.

 7. Click Close when it is done.

If you need to restore from one of these points, you can click the System Restore button on the System Protection tab. If you can't boot, you can hit F8 or Shift + F8 during boot to get to the emergency menu on some computers. On other PCs, if you can at least get to the log in screen, you can hold down Shift while you select Restart.

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