Sharing The Tools That Helped Me Move Away from Paid Software.
Software subscriptions keep getting more expensive, and too often, I found myself paying for features I didn’t need. Eventually, I got tired of feeling locked into tools that weren’t working for me. That’s when I started exploring Free and Open-Source Software (FOSS).
What Is Free and Open-Source Software (FOSS)?
FOSS (Free and Open-Source Software) is an umbrella term that includes both Free Software and Open-Source Software. It refers to any software distributed under terms that allow users to freely use, modify, and redistribute the software as they see fit.
To qualify as FOSS, software must grant the following four essential freedoms:
- The freedom to run the program for any purpose.
- The freedom to study how the program works and modify it to suit your needs.
- The freedom to redistribute copies to help others.
- The freedom to distribute copies of your modified versions to others.
Why did I make the switch?
Over time, software companies kept adding features I didn’t need. While some of the new AI tools were impressive, they made platforms feel bloated and distracting. For my personal use, I didn’t need all those “smart” features, I just needed tools that let me get things done.
What pushed me further was how often interfaces changed. Just as I’d settle into a workflow, some update would replace a familiar tool with an AI-driven version or bury it under unnecessary layers. It broke my momentum, and honestly, it was frustrating. That’s when I realized I needed simpler, more stable alternatives—and that led me to FOSS.
Everything I’ve mentioned so far is just the surface. I wanted to highlight the core frustrations that led me to make a change. That’s why I switched to Free and Open-Source Software (FOSS) tools because they better fit my needs without the extra noise.
Some of the tools I’ve switched to:
- LibreOffice – A simple document editor, spreadsheet, and presentation software.
- GIMP – Short for GNU Image Manipulation Program, used for photo editing and manipulation.
- Inkscape – For vector-based graphics and illustrations.
- Firefox – A privacy-focused web browser.
- Jitsi Meet – An open-source video conferencing tool.
- Bitwarden – A secure password manager.
- Audacity and Reaper – Music production and recording software.
- Thunderbird – An email client.
Now, I’m not saying it’s perfect. I still pay for some tools, but I’ve cut out the ones I didn’t truly need. The biggest trade-off was convenience, and yes, that took some adjustment. But for me, it was worth it. When I made the switch, I finally felt in control of my software, without worrying about losing access just because I stopped paying for a license. Switching to FOSS tools has been one of the best tech decisions I’ve made for personal usage.
- It helped me regain focus by eliminating distracting features.
- It freed me from the pressure of recurring subscription costs.
- And most importantly, it gave me independence from locked-down ecosystems.
If you’re feeling overwhelmed by rising software costs, bloated features, or subscription fatigue, I encourage you to explore FOSS. It may not be perfect, but the freedom, flexibility, and long-term value are worth it.