Overstock Clearance - TigerDirect
By Brian Satterfield
(11/10/05)
The best things in life may be free, but most software isn't. Limited functionality, annoying adware, and pesky nag screens mean even most "free" software isn't actually without cost.
Excellent freeware, though, does exist. Venerable VoIP program Skype, for instance, can help slash your long-distance bills with free computer-to-computer calls, while a small utility called ePrompter ensures that you don't have to log in to Gmail 50 times per day. And if you're sick and tired of unreliable file-sharing networks, set up your own private one with Grouper. Below are 10 free programs from Download.com's Internet category. They may not have a whole lot in common, but they all offer something compelling for no greenbacks.
Trillian
Just because your friends, family, and coworkers all prefer different IM clients doesn't mean you need to clutter your taskbar with multiple chat icons. All you need is Trillian, which lets you access the four most-popular instant messengers from one little window.
Opera
This alternative browser has always been a favorite with Download.com users, and now that it's free of advertisements, its user base is likely to climb even higher.
Grouper
Downloading from unpoliced P2P networks can be a dicey proposition thanks to virus- and Trojan-horse-infected files. For a safer experience, try this clever application, which lets you create your own private file-sharing network with a select group of friends.
Yahoo Toolbar with Anti-Spy
Even if you don't regularly use Yahoo's search engine or free e-mail service, this toolbar is worth downloading solely on the strength of its effective spyware detection and removal skills.
Free Download Manager
Totally free programs often force you to deal with bush-league interfaces. Thankfully, that's not the case with this management tool, which organizes, schedules, and resumes downloads, all from a well-designed and intuitive main window.
Skype
This VoIP application, which lets you make toll-free PC-to-PC calls, probably isn't as popular with phone companies as it is with the general public. The conversations won't cost you anything, but you will have to plunk down for a microphone or a headset.
Firefox
Internet Explorer's well-publicized security flaws have driven herds of users to alternative browsers, Firefox prominently among them. Other perks include tabbed browsing, fine protection against pop-ups, and an integrated Google search box.
CCleaner
With features to keep your PC in good health and protect your privacy, CCleaner is surprisingly versatile for a piece of freeware. Wipe away Web-surfing tracks, delete files, vacuum out your Registry, and uninstall programs.
Pluck
Most of the quality, free RSS readers we've seen rely at least partially on Internet Explorer, and we like how this one integrates seamlessly into Microsoft's browser, allowing you to peruse feeds and surf the Web at the same time.
ePrompter
Most people have more than one Web-based e-mail account these days. ePrompter helps make life a little easier by providing access to 20 popular e-mail services from one simple control panel. And to boot, the program will update your mail status as often as you tell it to.
