IT Queries: Computer problems answered

I’m a pensioner just coming to learn PCs. I’ve enrolled in a computers for seniors course and require microsoft office. Too expensive is opal a viable alternative?

We’re not aware of an Opal Office package. However an web search shows there has been an outfit repackaging the free Open Office suite and selling it under the name “Opal”.

While this is strictly speaking not illegal, we don’t see where there’s any value in paying for the Opal Office when you can download the identical Open Office for free.

There are a number of free online Office alternatives such as Google Docs, Think Free and Zoho. These require an Internet connection to use.

If you want to pay there are some cheap alternatives as well. 602 Office is popular and WordPerfect suite is still available for less than MS Office.

Keep in mind that not having Office may be a problem when you do the course as the materials and lessons will be based on Office and the presenter will assume everyone is using the same package.

You may want to consider using Microsoft’s free 60 day trial of Office while you do the course. Also keep in mind Microsoft offer a cheaper version of Office for students and households.

You can follow any responses to this entry through the RSS 2.0 feed. You can leave a response, or trackback from your own site.