Online software is slowly but unrelentingly replacing desktop software, as users realize that the benefits of cloud computing go beyond of just an attractive price tag. Online software offers distinct advantages over traditional software such as sharing of resources, world-wide mobility, and security, both in file storage and in keeping malicious intrusions at bay, or at least making it harder for the hackers to infiltrate.
With current online solutions all you need is a modern browser and an internet connection. It can’t really get simpler than that. Or perhaps yes, it could get simpler, but they’re still working on it, as Google OS is not quite ready yet.
In the meantime see below a list of on-line applications that can be used as an alternative to some of the most commonly used desktop programs.
iCloud
Alternative to an Operating System
An Operating System inside a web browser. You can even have your own computer online complete with desktop, mail, applications, up to 100 GB storage, and much more.
Sliderocket
Alternative to Microsoft PowerPoint
Sliderocket allows you to create, manage, edit, and share presentations on-line.
Acrobat.com
Alternative to Microsoft Office
Acrobat.com is a suite of web applications by Adobe that can do the work of Microsoft Word, Excel, and Powerpoint, with the added bonus of allowing users to convert files into PDFs.
Aviary
Alternative to Adobe Photoshop, Illustrator, etc.
The Aviary suite not only provides a pretty decent alternative to Photoshop through its Phoenix Image Editor, but it also includes the following applications:
• Toucan: Color Editor
• Myna: Audio Editor
• Peacock: Effects Editor
• Raven: Vector Editor
• Falcon: Image Markup
• Roc: Music Creator.
Mint
Alternative to Quicken
A free personal-finance tool that allows you to keep track your credit card transactions, balance your budget, and create charts or graphs to help you visualize your spending. It was acquired by the very makers of Quicken and TurboTax in 2009, so that should tell you something.
JayCut
Alternative to Video Editing Software
Online video editor that features transitions, audio, effects, and export it directly to YouTube. Export up to 20 videos a month with 2GB of storage for free.
WobZip
Alternative to Uncompressing Software
Online tool to uncompress files in a variety of compression formats, including the popular ZIP, RAR, and 7z formats. WobZip will also scan the files using BitDefender to make sure there isn’t a nasty virus lurking around.
ESET Online Virus Scanner
Alternative to Anti-Virus Software
By the makers of NOD32, this ESET online scanner uses the same threat signatures as NOD32.
More Web Applications can be found at the following link:
15 Web Alternatives to Popular Desktop Software
