Common Applications in Windows

Common Applications in Windows: A Simple Guide

Windows comes with many useful apps. These apps help you do many daily tasks. You can browse the web. You can write documents. You can watch videos. You can join video calls. This guide explains the common applications you will meet on Windows.

How to Open Apps in Windows

• Click the Start button at the bottom-left of the screen.
• Look through the Start menu for the app icon.
• Or type the app name in the search box and press Enter.
• Click the icon to open the app.

If you do not find an app, it may need to be downloaded or installed.

Web Browsers

Web browsers let you view websites and web apps. Windows includes its own browser. Many users also install other browsers.

• Microsoft Edge — The default modern browser. It is fast and secure. It also has a reading mode and useful tools.
• Internet Explorer — Found in older Windows versions. It has a simple look but is outdated for security.
• Google Chrome — Popular for speed and many extensions.
• Mozilla Firefox — Good for privacy and customization.

Productivity Apps

These apps help you work and stay organized. Many come built-in. Others you may install separately.

• Mail and Calendar — Combine email and schedule in one place. Works with Microsoft, Google, and Apple accounts.
• OneNote — A flexible note-taking tool. You can type, draw, or clip web content. It syncs across devices.
• Microsoft 365 (Office) — Word, Excel, and PowerPoint for documents, spreadsheets, and slides. Often used at work and school.
• Maps — Built-in maps for directions and saved places. Powered by Bing Maps.

Media Apps

Windows includes apps for photos, music, and video. These are easy to use for beginners.

• Photos — View, organize, and do simple edits. You can create albums and slideshows.
• Groove Music — Play music stored on your PC or in OneDrive.
• Movies & TV — Play videos and buy or rent movies online.
• Windows Media Player — A classic player for music and video files.
• VLC Media Player — Downloadable app. Plays almost every file type.

Communication & Collaboration

These apps let you talk or meet online. They work for both personal and business use.

• Skype — Video calls and chat with friends and family.
• Microsoft Teams — Team chat, video meetings, and file sharing for work or school.
• Zoom — Popular for classes, meetings, and webinars.
• Outlook — A full email app that also handles calendar and contacts.

Built-in System Apps

These small apps are often overlooked. Yet they are useful every day.

• Calculator — For simple math, scientific functions, and conversions.
• Notepad — A plain text editor for quick notes and simple text files.
• Control Panel — Older tool for advanced settings and system options.
• Settings app — The modern and easier interface to change system options.

Other Common and Useful Apps

• Spotify — Stream music and podcasts (installable).
• 7-Zip / WinRAR — Tools to compress and extract files.
• Notepad++ — An advanced text editor favored by developers.
• Google Drive / OneDrive — Cloud storage to save and sync files online.

Tip: Try a few apps and see what suits your work style. Windows supports most popular programs. You can switch apps later if you want.

Why These Apps Matter

Apps turn your computer into a helpful tool. Browsers connect you to the web. Productivity tools help you make documents. Media apps let you enjoy music and movies. Communication apps keep you in touch. System apps keep the computer running smoothly.

FAQ

How do I open an app from the Start menu?

Click the Start button. Then find the app icon. Click it to open. You can also search by typing the app name.

Are Microsoft Office apps free?

Microsoft 365 is paid. It often needs a subscription. You can use free online versions of Word, Excel, and PowerPoint or try Google Docs.

Which browser is best for Windows?

Microsoft Edge is a good default. Chrome and Firefox are also strong choices. Pick one that fits your needs for speed, privacy, and extensions.

Can I uninstall built-in Windows apps?

Some built-in apps can be removed. Others, like Settings or Edge, are not easily uninstalled. Use caution before removing system apps.

What is the best media player for many file types?

VLC Media Player is highly recommended. It plays almost all audio and video formats without extra codecs.

Conclusion

Windows comes ready with many apps that cover most everyday needs. Start with the built-in tools. Add other apps as needed. In time, you will build a set of programs that fit your work and hobbies. Explore slowly. Learn one app at a time. That is the easiest way to become more confident on Windows.