Vista - Free Word Processing Software List

Ciao from Dallas! This is my first post here and though you folks all seem very pleasant and extremely well informed I hope I don't have to spend lots of time here. I would rather be enjoying my new computer rather than reading about how it works and how to get it to work, if you know what I mean. My computer uses are very limited by most standards (internet, email and some word processing for the most part with simple audio/video and photo work occasionally) so I prefer stuff that allows me to easily and repeatably get the job done with a minimum of fuss and struggle. With that here's the short story and the questions.

Lucky me, I had to replace my eight year old computer last week. Big change smacking me in the face! Even the new keyboard is taking some getting used to. I had no idea, nor did the salesperson mention, there were multiple versions of Vista to contend with until I began re-installing software I had used for years. Not everything likes 64bit!

Right now I need a suggestion for new word processing freeware. I have been using Works/Word 2002 and I can't really say I care that much for its facilities. It's too often too clunky and too unnecessarily complicated for what I really require. Get it typed and save it or send it somewhere else in the computer is typically all I require. Where do I go for such a free download?

Also, if anyone has a suggestion for a cheap flatbed scanner, I'd appreciate any suggestions for what would work with 64bit and not cost much. My scanner uses are so limited I feel ridiculous buying a new scanner but the old Canon just won't work with the new OS. Unfortunately, when I need a scanner I need a scanner, so I am looking for a good suggestion that won't kill my already injured budget.

Open Office has a good free wordpro http://www.openoffice.org/

Hi jon, and welcome to the forums,

another WP to checkout especially if you only need a word processor is Abiword
also free so you could check out both and see which you prefer

AbiWord

As for an occasional use flat bed scanner have a look at some of the All-in-one printers from Epson, HP, and Canon, the prices on these today are very competitive and seem to get better driver support than standalone scanners.

OpenOffice! definitely.

Thanks. I'll give both a look. I hate to replace the printer I bought just this last spring so I'll probably stick with a flat bed scanner stand alone.

Thanks again for the prompt responses.

I'll add my .02 for open office. Seems to work great!

Lotus Symphony.

IBM Lotus Symphony