GeriB, if your machine connects to computer and also uses flash drive, you do not need any software until you reach the point where you want to digitize and create your own designs. If you want to convert a design to your format (,pes?), there are free programs that let you do that. Wilcom, Tajima Pulse, & others. There is a free Wings My Editor that allows you to convert, delete, resize, create from clip art....Sands (Sewwhatpro & Sewiconz are excellent) and Embird have free 30 day trials of their software..there are many free programs you can try out before you invest big dollars. You will find lots of free designs on the internet and usually you can select your format. Do a google search of "free machine embroidery designs". Good luck--Enjoy and learn!