SmartFTP
SmartFTP is one of our favorite FTP clients, thanks to its
customizable interface and intuitive drag-and-drop transfers. Best
of all, it comes loaded with enough functionality to satisfy the
novice and the expert alike.
ZipGenius
With its cuddly interface and ability to work with nearly any file
format you throw at it, ZipGenius is one of the best compression
applications anywhere. Whether you're sending off an archive of
files to a friend via e-mail or unzipping downloads (something we
do often, believe it or not), this program is easy to use, easy on
your hard drive, and easy on the wallet.
Spybot - Search & Destory
If any piece of freeware deserves the name of a would-be James Bond
flick, this is it. In addition to removing invasive programs, the
added Secure Shredder function absolutely annihilates troublesome
files.
Hijack This
This lightweight program offers a simple, powerful remedy for the
pesky spyware and adware that manages to get past other tools.
Novice users should be mindful about what they're tossing out, but
this is ideal for the infection you just can't seem to shake.
Easy Uninstaller
Of course it's a gas to try out all kinds of software applications,
but sooner or later, some will wear out their welcome. For a
simple, one-step housecleaner, we like Easy Uninstaller, which
allows the removal of multiple programs in a few easy clicks.
FreeRAM XP Pro
If you want to boost PC performance without taking a hit in the
pocket, this little nugget does the trick. With the snazzy tray
icon, you can even keep an eye on your system's performance when
things start to slow down.
Microsoft Windows AntiSpyware
A great all-around spyware killer, Microsoft's free tool is quick,
straightforward, and populated by those adorable little characters.
Absent-minded users will like the ability to schedule regular
scans, as well as the frequent updates.
SpeedFan
Granted, SpeedFan might be a little geeky for Grandma, but if your
machine tends to occasionally impersonate a jet engine, this handy
diagnostic gizmo will be very useful. Compact and simple, this
program clinches the deal with fan and temperature
monitoring.
BGArchive
This no-frills program makes is easy to encrypt sensitive files in
a short amount of time. BCArchive is tiny and quick, and with an
option for self-decrypting files, secure transfers don't depend on
all parties installing the software.
AVG Anti-Virus Free Edition
This competent virus scanner has everything covered, from the
creation of a backup rescue disk to daily updates for virus
definitions. The application's curiously, ahem, busy interface
isn't going to win any beauty contests, but for functionality and
price, it's among the best.
