Firestarter is a configuration tool for the IPtables firewall built into Ubuntu. The firewall is running in the background regardless of whether you install this program. Firestarter simply allows you to configure the firewall, should you choose to.

Virus Scanner is a GUI based interface for Clam Antivirus. While Ubuntu isn't vulnerable to the vast majority of virii, which are primarily written to infect Windows systems, it doesn't hurt to have a virus scanner to check suspect files.

Wipe is a command line program for secure deletion of files. If you plan on selling or giving away a hard drive that once housed sensitive company documents, or your personal information, Wipe allows you to protect yourself from the possibility of information or identity theft. By overwriting files with random data multiple times, Wipe ensures that your deleted files cannot be recovered by unscrupulous individuals.