Helpful Software
Over the years Jon has used a wide variety of hardware and software in ministry. The list below includes some of his most useful and favorites. Note: Jon Barr or SWM does not endorse or recommend specific products or services. This page is for your information only.
LibreOffice is a powerful office suite – its clean interface and feature-rich tools help you unleash your creativity and enhance your productivity. LibreOffice includes several applications that make it the most powerful Free and Open Source office suite on the market.
Affinity Photo is graphics software redefined. — From the smoothest, fastest photo editing and graphic design software to the most powerful publishing software, Affinity apps are pushing the boundaries of what’s possible with creative technology. From $50 one-time cost.
e-Sword – EVERYTHING NEEDED – to study God’s Word in an enjoyable and enriching manner. All Bibles, commentaries, dictionaries, … everything is just a click away! POWERFUL SEARCHES that are simple to use. Enter as many words you want to search for and select the settings. You can even search on Strong numbers! Available for PC, Mac, iPad, iPhone.
VLC media player – VLC is a free and open source cross-platform multimedia player that plays most multimedia files as well as DVDs, Audio CDs, VCDs, and various streaming protocols. Runs on all platforms – Windows, Linux, Mac and more. Completely Free – no spyware, no ads and no user tracking.
Google – Store any file. Keep photos, stories, designs, drawings, recordings, videos, and more. Your first 15 GB of storage are free with a Google Account. Get Gmail, Docs, Drive, Calendar, and more
Operating System and Related
Chrome Remote Desktop — Your desktop anywhere. Go to the link to set up your computer. Securely access your computer from your phone, tablet, or another computer. It’s fast, simple, and free.
Linux is a free operating system that can be used instead of Windows or MacOS. It works great on older computers. Popular Linux distributions include Debian, Fedora, and Ubuntu. Don’t know where to start? Try Linux Mint (MATE) or Ubuntu. Click on Download.
Windows 10 Upgrade – If you are running an older version of Windows, this link will help you upgrade to Windows 10. Whether you are asked to pay for this version of Windows, or not, will depend on Microsoft’s policy at the time.
Windows 10 ISO – Download the Windows 10 ISO to install on your own computer. Whether you are asked to pay for this version of Windows, or not, will depend on Microsoft’s policy at the time.
VirtualBox is a powerful program that runs on Windows, Linux, Macintosh, and Solaris hosts (your computer). It allows you to run another operating system on your computer, such as Windows (many versions), DOS/Windows 3.x, Linux, and more.
Organizing
Slack brings all your communication together. Teamwork in Slack happens in channels — a single place for messaging, tools and files — helping everyone save time and collaborate together.
Trello lets you work more collaboratively and get more done. Trello’s boards, lists, and cards enable you to organize and prioritize your projects in a fun, flexible, and rewarding way.
Online Security
LastPass remembers all your passwords, so you don’t have to. Save a password once, and it’s instantly available on all your devices. Trusted by industry experts worldwide, Lastpass keeps your information private, secure, and hidden (even from them).
Authy 2FA – Why use Two-Factor Authentication? Relying on just usernames and passwords to secure your online accounts is no longer considered safe. Data breaches occur daily and hackers are always inventing new ways to take over your accounts. Protect yourself by enabling Authy two-factor authentication (2FA). Block anyone using your stolen data by verifying your identity through your device. Enable 2FA now to protect your accounts online. Learn more about 2FA.
OpenDNS is a free way to guard what comes in through your internet connection. You just need to change your router’s DNS settings to 208.67.222.222 and 208.67.220.220. The website explains how to get started.
ProtonVPN – Unique Features for a more secure VPN – Unlike other VPN services, ProtonVPN is designed with security as the main focus, drawing upon the lessons we have learned from working with journalists and activists in the field. (The free account is enough for many.)
Website
WordPress is open source software you can use to create a beautiful website, blog, or app. Beautiful designs, powerful features, and the freedom to build anything you want. WordPress is both free and priceless at the same time.
SiteGround is our current choice for website hosting. Use this link and get one year at a discounted rate. Their basic package is good enough for most ministries. Install WordPress in you SiteGround account to design your own impressive website. Sound hard? Not really. Try it!