Security software was non-negotiable in 2012 due to high malware volume.
(Essential Programs 2012) typically refers to a curated software bundle, such as the one released by Allianceone , designed to provide users with a "one-stop-shop" for setting up a computer with the necessary tools of that era. Overview of the Software Bundle
Security in 2012 was still heavily focused on desktop protection as malware grew more sophisticated.