I absolutely can't function without my laptop; it is my access to the rest of the world. My laptop is what I use to get work done and how I communicate with pretty much everybody. There are a few essential types of software for the mobile crusader which are imperative to have in order to progress in this upwardly mobile world. Here is a short list of software I recommend that you have on your laptop.

Office Applications

Office Applications provide software to create spreadsheets, and simple databases, as well as a word processor. Microsoft Office Suite and OpenOffice are popular at the present time.

PDF Writer

If you want to create professional looking PDF files you will need a PDF writer. Cute PDF Writer and Adobe Suite, offer freeware programs that allow you to create PDF files. With both there is an option to upgrade to a paid version with better features, but the freeware versions are adequate enough for basic creation.

Internet Browser

Internet browsers you use to access the internet. Mozilla Firefox and Internet Explorer offer a wide range of features that are highly useful. These two are Open source, which means that they are free.

Firewall

A firewall application is the basic defense for your laptop. It prevents people from easily accessing your system. McAfee Suite and Spybot are good free applications to use, and some operating systems come with effective ones as well.

A Messenger Service

Messenger services area a must have. Internet messaging platforms make it easy for you to chat with your friends and family. The free ones I know of are MSN, Yahoo, and AIM.

VOiP

VOiP is an internet telephone application. These applications are much more stable than the voice functions of internet messaging services. They also make it possible for you to send files to multiple recipient conference calls all at the same time. Skype is free to use and effective.

Desktop Calendar

Desktop calendars make it easy to organize daily to-do lists, and keep track of upcoming appointments. Many websites that offer free tool bars and desktop gadgets will have a vast sampling of them.

A Media Player

A media player allows you to listen to music and watch movies on your laptop. Windows offers a free media player that works quite well. As with other software, you can find a media player download for free on the internet.