This book will point the way to numerous free, low-cost, and open-source software solutions that could provide viable alternatives to their paid counterparts. Pro Freeware and Open Source Solutions for Business is now in its Second Edition; it has been thoroughly revised and updated. This book covers the most up-to-date software versions. Software described in the First Edition that is no longer available has been replaced with comparable titles when possible.

The book starts with an office productivity tool known as OfficeLibre and goes on to explain CRM and compression software. You will then learn about desktop publishing, illustration, 3D modeling, and photo editing software. As we progress further, you will learn more about audio-video capture and editing software along with Openshot, an easy-to-use free video editor. You will also learn about available project planning and time tracking software, and much more. By the end of the book, you will have also gained knowledge about security programs, as well as how to use Linux on Windows and MacOS.

With the challenging economic times we find ourselves in, this book may be more important than ever to help small business owners eliminate and reduce costs, and keep more money in their business.

What You Will Learn

• Understand the important differences between freeware and open-source software.
• Discern which paid commercial software the free version replaces (when applicable).
• Gain insight into how organizations and municipalities around the world adopting open-source software to save money on licensing fees.

Who This Book Is For

Primarily small business owners, solo entrepreneurs or freelancers on a budget, and cost efficiency experts.