Software can cost a bundle. For programs you can't afford but can't do without, you can frequently find free open-source software substitutes. Though never an exact match, these facsimiles generally get the job done. Here are a few.

1. You need: WinZip or WinRAR. Try: PeaZip (peazip.sourceforge .net), which manages files in archive formats such as ZIP, 7Z, RAR, TAR and PEA. It has an easy-to-use interface and drag-and-drop format that works well.

2. You need: Microsoft Office. Try: OpenOffice (openoffice.org) for word processing, spreadsheets, presentations, graphics, databases and more. It can save files as Word documents and usually read files from other office programs with no difficulty.

3. You need: Adobe Photoshop. Try: GIMP (gimp.org) to create and alter photos and graphics, manually or via scripting. Perfect for photographers, as well as Web designers, it can be used as a paint program or for photo retouching.

Suffolk housing debate ... Atlantic Beach tornado repairs ... Out East: North Fork Foodie Tour Credit: Newsday

Countdown to Hofstra strike ... Jericho, East Williston go back to school ... Little lending libraries ... Out East: North Fork Foodie Tour

Suffolk housing debate ... Atlantic Beach tornado repairs ... Out East: North Fork Foodie Tour Credit: Newsday

Countdown to Hofstra strike ... Jericho, East Williston go back to school ... Little lending libraries ... Out East: North Fork Foodie Tour

SUBSCRIBE

Unlimited Digital AccessOnly 25¢for 6 months

ACT NOWSALE ENDS SOON | CANCEL ANYTIME