Download.com Advice and How-Tos

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Eggcellent Easter downloads

(4/03/07)

Hop, hop! Easter is fast approaching. After you're done bingeing yourself into a boiled-egg-and-confectionary coma, check out this desktop basket full of screensavers, games, and other downloadable treats.

Paddy's Day downloads

(4/15/07)

Get into the Paddy's day spirit with this collection of Irish-themed downloads. Erin go bragh!

March Madness downloads

(3/9/07)

Get ready for March Madness in style with this collection of office pool managers, sports tickers, and basketball sims.

Beat back that Trojan horse

(2/28/07)

Accidents happen. Somewhere, somehow you've clicked the wrong link and a Trojan horse has piled your PC with adware and spyware. Learn some basic techniques for beating back the assailants.

Presidents' Day downloads

(2/14/07)

With a slew of snappy screensavers, history downloads, and games, this presidential collection helps put some panache into Presidents' Day.

Valentine's Day Downloads

(2/8/07)

Valentine's Day is here again. Whether you plan to spend Valentine's Day with your honey this year or Han Solo, this collection of cockle-warming downloads has something for you.

Downloads for Windows Vista

(1/31/07)

After five long years, Windows Vista is finally here, but where is the software for it? Get tweaking utilities--and resources for installing and running Vista--in our special collection.

How to place 3D models into Google Earth 4

(1/25/07)

The latest version of Google Earth lets users fulfill their dreams of architectural mastery. Learn how to add 3D structures to Google Earth's topography for millions of people to see.

Plan the perfect wedding

(1/19/07)

With a slew of tools to help plan budgets, create invite lists, and juggle seating arrangements, this collection of wedding-management software has everything you need for your big day to go off without a hitch.

Keep your New Year's resolution

(12/25/06)

Starting the New Year seems empty without a set of lofty yet weak-kneed resolutions. We've put together a collection of resolution-building applications that just might help you stick to your guns this time.

Winter wonderland

(12/22/06)

It's the most wonderful time of the year! Celebrate the occasion by transforming your desktop into a virtual snow globe with our collection of winter scene screensavers and wallpaper.

Rising stars of 2007

(12/21/06)

The year 2006 will be remembered for the next round in the browser wars, the rise of Web 2.0, and the persistent threat of malware. Which new software programs are poised to explode in popularity in 2007?

Best free Windows Mobile software

(12/20/06)

You dig your Windows Mobile device, but you'll love it more when it's loaded up with free software for entertainment, security, and work. Find the best and brightest free downloads for your faithful handheld.

Favorite iPodware

(12/20/06)

If you can't wait around for iTunes to add iPod-to-PC backup functionality or convert your movies, check out these apps for enhancing the ubiquitous audio and video player.

Deck your desktop

(12/07/06)

With a handsome array of holiday baubles, this decorative collection of desktop enhancements will fill you with holiday cheer faster than you can say "Festivus."

How to: Master your MP3s with Audacity

(11/27/06)

Learn how to tweak your audio files for podcasts, Web pages, or ring tones in just six easy steps.

Firefox 2 theme gallery

(11/21/06)

From understated elegance to bright yellow buttons, there's bound to be a theme to please in our special collection for Firefox 2.

Thanksgiving collection

(11/16/06)

Ready or not, the holiday season is upon us. Whether your Turkey Day fave is crunchy-onion/green-bean casserole or marshmallow-covered yams, this Thanksgiving collection of desktop treats is sure to fill you with holiday cheer.

Best extensions for Firefox 2

(11/10/06)

Firefox 2 added functionality from some of the most popular extensions for the previous versions. So what will the future bring? Check out our top 10 extensions for Firefox 2, and tell us about your own faves.

How to make your Symbian phone smarter

(11/02/06)

You don't have to be a brain surgeon to boost your smart phone's IQ. Downloadable software offers maps and directions, an instant messenger, and the latest news to go.

Download tricks and treats

(10/30/06)

Ghoulish tricks and delightful treats await you in a special collection of Halloween freebies. Mwahahahaha!

CNET Haunted Halloween

(10/25/06)

As Halloween approaches, this assortment of themes, screensavers, and party planners is just the thing to make your computer go bump in the night. For all those who dare, devilish downloads await you.

CNET Download.com 10th anniversary

(10/23/06)

Celebrate the 10th anniversary of CNET Download.com with a look at the biggest programs of the past decade, a 2006 time capsule, and predictions about the future of downloading.

Throw the ultimate dance party

(10/05/06)

Start with whiz-bang DJ software, ladle on some thumping MP3s, top with small, intense speakers, and voilá! You've got your own dance party.

Autumn screensaver collection

(9/27/06)

Autumn is upon those of us in the Northern hemisphere. We've put together a gorgeous collection of screensavers to help you celebrate the beginning of the season. From falling leaves and auburn forests to cute woodland creatures, it's easy to get images of autumn on your desktop.

Best bang for the byte

(9/22/06)

Even when hard drives are cheap and RAM is plentiful, there's no excuse for bloatware. Find 10 of our favorite standalone programs with downloadable installers that are less than 1MB.

NFL Resource Guide

(9/19/06)

Are you ready for some football? Our NFL Resource Guide of official screensavers, desktop wallpaper, and team schedules is just what you need to show off some pigskin pride on your desktop.

How to family-proof your PC

(9/08/06)

You may be savvy about computer security, but what about your family and friends? Before loved ones accidentally destroy your PC, take some smart precautions to help keep user-facilitated malware and viruses off your system.

Back-to-school downloads

(8/31/06)

Whether your child is entering kindergarten or grad school this fall, CNET Download.com has software to help her make the most of the school experience. From flash-card programs to homework organizers to scientific calculators, this collection of educational applications can help students in any grade.

DIY Desktop bling

(8/25/06)

Just because your computer comes with boring backgrounds and icons doesn't mean you have to live with them. Find themes, widgets, and other desktop tools to transform your computer from bo-ring to bling-bling.

NFL Kickoff

(8/18/06)

With the dog days of summer sports drawing to a close, it's time to prepare for another NFL season. In the spirit of the upcoming NFL kickoff we've put together a collection of gridiron downloads that will get you ready for some football in no time.

Best Firefox extensions: User favorites

(8/14/06)

We asked for your favorite extensions to the open-source browser Firefox, and you responded generously. Learn which top 10 add-ons made the list of user favorites.

Summer on the go

(7/27/06)

Mobile devices are the dogs of the gadget world--constant companions that make your life more interesting and meaningful. This summer, let your handheld device help you fetch IMs, media files, and directions.

Kids of summer

(7/19/06)

With school still safely a month away, we've put together two great collections of downloads for grade-school kids and teens that prove you can have fun safely without letting your mind go as soft as Jell-O.

Summer blockbuster downloads

(7/13/06)

Impress your friends by sporting IM icons from some of Tinseltown's biggest summer releases. From Superman Returns and Cars to Nacho Libre, we've got your messaging icons covered.

Best free security and spyware software

(6/29/06)

Some of the best security software on CNET Download.com won't cost you a dime. Get basic protection for your Windows PC with this collection of fantastic freeware.

Fourth of July fireworks

(6/28/06)

With the sun shining, the grills heating up, and the baked beans in the oven, it's time to get ready to celebrate the Fourth of July. Show off your patriotism in style with this collection of Independence Day downloads.

Spyware Horror Stories: Rebel yell

(6/21/06)

When an Internet video traps Ryan in a fierce spyware assault, he must rally his troops and execute a daring strategy to win the battle.

FIFA 2006 World Cup

(6/19/06)

For one month every four years, the FIFA World Cup explodes into the hearts and homes of billions of fans worldwide. Prepare for this year's football extravaganza with a collection of World Cup-inspired software and games.

How to secure your wireless network

(6/15/06)

Wireless networks offer untethered connections for Web surfers, but that freedom comes with security risks. Learn basic measures for protecting your wireless network.

Father's Day downloads

(6/12/06)

We've rounded up a great collection of Father's Day-themed software that is sure to make your dad feel the love on his special day.

Best Firefox extensions Volume III

(6/01/06)

Download video from YouTube, follow the World Cup, and add some color to your tabs with our latest collection of favorite Firefox extensions.

Spyware Horror Stories: In the fix

(6/01/06)

Pete's paranoia comes in handy as he tries to outwit a piece of software called WinFixer

Firefox theme gallery

(6/01/06)

Take a break from the default Firefox interface with a collection of imaginative and attractive themes.

FIFA World Cup 2006

(5/31/06)

Prepare for this year's football extravaganza with a collection of World Cup-inspired software and games.

Spyware Horror Stories: Uninvited guest

(5/31/06)

Douglas enjoyed his free screensaver until it refused to uninstall. Learn how he eventually evicted the intruder.

Before disaster strikes

(updated 5/26/06)

Be prepared for severe storms of any kind with weather trackers, back-up software, and advice for small businesses.

Rating the antivirus apps

(5/25/06)

Selecting antivirus protection for your PC is one of the most important security decisions to make. Compare CNET reviews for six of the leading antivirus programs.

Spyware Horror Stories: All in the family

(5/24/06)

After Jon's brother buys their sister's computer and gets endless pornography pop-ups, he blames Jon for his troubles. Learn how the family drama plays out.

How to avoid suspicious Web sites

(5/23/06)

Informed Web surfers are the bane of cybercriminals. Learn how to protect yourself online with nine signs that a Web site might be dangerous.

Spyware Horror Stories: Night of the living dead

(5/17/06)

Patrick surfed the Net without protection for 11 years, but zombie spyware that nearly demolished his system forced him to mend his wanton ways.

Make Mom's Day memorable

(5/11/06)

Break out of the usual Mother's Day mold with a gift beyond the ordinary to show your mom you care. We've put together a collection of how-tos and handy apps that will make you a Mother's Day hero, even if you did forgot to get her flowers once again.

Smiles turned upside down

(5/11/06)

A search for new smileys turns into a big frown for Stephen and his sister. Find out how he managed to escape emoticon hell.

DIY: Make your own ring tones

(5/4/06)

Add a little personal flair to your cell phone. In the latest installment of our Download DIY series, we'll show you two quick and easy ways to turn your MP3 files into custom ring tones.

Spyware Horror Stories: Silent Assassin

(5/3/06)

After Carlos unsuspectingly accepted a game hack from a so-called friend via instant messenger, he received more than he expected. Learn how he saved himself from Omerta.

Security Starter Kit

(4/27/06)

Don't dare connect to the Net without security measures installed on your computer. Follow our five steps to limit your PC's exposure to dangerous threats, and tell us which security program is the most important for you.

Spyware Horror Stories: Code breaker

(4/26/06)

A lost registration code for Microsoft Word turns into weeks of frustration for two Michiganders. Get tips for avoiding the same fate.

Spyware Horror Stories: Hijacked by the man-in-the-middle

(4/19/06)

Sometimes antivirus and antispyware programs and firewalls are not enough. Learn about Eric's man-in-the-middle attack and get tips for securing your own wireless network

Spyware Horror Stories: Blitzkrieg!

(4/12/06)

A veteran WWII gamer is thrown into an all-too-real battle against malware that corrupts his hard drive. Get Gautham's dispatches from the front line.

DIY: Make a pro-quality screensaver

(4/7/06)

Digital pictures are cool, but your own personalized screensaver is way cooler. Learn how to create your own, and download impressive examples from Download.com staffers.

Optimizing Firefox

(3/31/06)

Everyone loves customizing the open-source browser, but what happens if your PC starts to stutter? Get extensions and tips to improve Firefox performance and reduce memory usage.

Traveler's Toolkit

(4/5/06)

Hitting the road doesn't mean you have to unconnect your life. Get software and tips for being productive and having fun while away from home or the office.

Spyware Horror Stories: Registry cleaner error?

(4/5/06)

A Boise woman tries to manage her Windows system files, but a potentially rogue Registry cleaner gives her more trouble than it's worth.

PC Starter Kit

(Updated 3/29/06)

What are the best programs for a new computer? Learn which 20 apps made our list of must-have products for PCs.

Spyware Horror Stories: A Trojan stole my Web sites

(3/29/06)

An owner of several Web sites is no longer the master of his domains after a nasty encounter with a P2P-based keylogger. Learn what happened to Luke.

Independent Games Festival 2006

(Updated 3/23/06)

The IGF has been honoring achievements by small game developers for eight years. See which games took home the top prizes, and watch video coverage of the 2006 Game Developers Conference.

Spyware Horror Stories: Playing with firewalls

(3/22/06)

A suspicious security program prevents a conscientious user from running spyware scans. What's the solution? Learn from Cameron's misfortune.

Spyware Horror Stories: Roaches of the virtual world

(3/15/06)

Even the most security-conscious Web surfer can accidentally allow a Trojan horse onto their system. Read how Vundo thwarted a self-described "king of paranoia."

My Watch List

(3/12/06)

Check out our new Watch List feature, a great way to track product updates on Download.com and to get the latest downloads from your favorite publishers.

Spyware Horror Stories of thertual world

(3/8/06)

Even the most security-conscious Web surfer can accidentally allow a Trojan horse onto their system. Read how Vundo thwarted a self-described "king of paranoia."

How to use WinPatrol

(3/8/06)

This PC-monitoring program employs a variety of features to keep malware and other threats off your system. Learn how to put the power of Scotty the Watchdog to work.

Top ten spyware killers reviewed

(3/1/06)

CNET editors offer full evaluations of 10 of the top antispyware programs on the market. Learn how each of the security programs measured up.

Spyware Horror Stories: Time to switch your OS

(3/1/06)

An 11-year-old son accidentally installs a rogue antispyware app while searching for Playstation 2 codes. How far will Dad go to get his PC back?

Spyware Horror Stories: Hijackers: not just for porn sites anymore

(2/22/06)

We asked our readers to relay their worst encounters with spyware, and they responded with plenty of hair-raising accounts. This week: An extra active ActiveX control puts to rest a popular myth.

Spyware Horror Stories: Exorcising a possessed PC

(2/15/06)

We asked our readers to relay their worst encounters with spyware, and they responded with plenty of hair-raising accounts. This week: A church youth director loses control of his computer.

DIY: Make a custom mix CD

(2/9/06)

The homemade mix CD is one of the most honored of our modern courting traditions. Learn the secrets of the pros, and find downloadable picks from our music editors.

Spyware Horror Stories: Campus networks can be dirty places

(2/8/06)

We asked our readers to relay their worst encounters with spyware, and they responded with plenty of hair-raising accounts. This week: A student gets slammed by university viruses.

Spyware Horror Stories: Leaving Internet Explorer behind

(2/1/06)

We asked our readers to relay their worst encounters with spyware, and they responded with plenty of hair-raising accounts. This week: Remember to install your Windows updates.

Spyware Horror Stories: How spyware can cost you your job

(1/25/06)

We asked our readers to relay their worst encounters with spyware, and they responded with plenty of hair-raising accounts. This week: A malware victim ends up unemployed.

Spyware Horror Stories: SpyAxe: the latest rogue

(1/18/06)

We asked our readers to relay their worst encounters with spyware, and they responded with plenty of hair-raising accounts. This week: Eliminating the rogue SpyAxe

Staff Predictions 2006

(1/13/06)

Ten Download.com staff members peer into the future to bring you their 2006 tech predictions. Learn what they think will happen this year, then vote on whether you believe their predictions will come true.

Spyware Horror Stories: System restore to the rescue

(1/11/06)

We asked our readers to relay their worst encounters with spyware, and they responded with plenty of hair-raising accounts. This week: Rolling back your operating system

Spyware Horror Stories: How porn and P2P pummeled a PC

(1/4/06)

We asked our readers to relay their worst encounters with spyware, and they responded with plenty of hair-raising accounts. This week: File-sharing and adult sites cripple a new desktop.

More spyware horror stories

(12/21/05)

We asked our readers to relay their worst encounters with spyware, and they responded with plenty of hair-raising accounts. This week: Yet another reason to get DSL.

The best free software home page

(12/19/05)

Want something for nothing? We mined Download.com for the best free software across our 10 most-popular categories, from audio to system utilities to games.

The best free business software

(12/15/05)

Want something for nothing? We mined Download.com for 10 totally free business apps that will help you get a leg up.

More spyware horror stories

(12/14/05)

We asked our readers to relay their worst encounters with spyware, and they responded with plenty of hair-raising accounts. This week: These "free" icons come at a price.

The best Firefox extensions

(12/8/05)

Mozilla recently announced a contest for software developers, challenging them to build the coolest Firefox add-ons they could dream up. While that's going on, we rounded up 10 preexisting Firefox extensions we think you should try.

The best free games

(12/8/05)

Want something for nothing? We mined Download.com for 10 totally free games guaranteed to show you a good time.

More spyware horror stories

(12/7/05)

We asked our readers to relay their worst encounters with spyware, and they responded with plenty of hair-raising accounts. This week: Unsolicited phone calls via unsolicited software.

Mobile Essentials

(12/1/05)

Got an iPod, a Treo, or a BlackBerry? Our Mobile Essentials rounds up some useful software for all three devices.

The best free developer tools

(11/30/05)

Want something for nothing? We mined Download.com to identify 10 free applications developers will love.

More spyware horror stories

(11/30/05)

We asked our readers to relay their worst encounters with spyware, and they responded with plenty of hair-raising accounts. This week: Always read the fine print.

Best free utilities

(11/23/05)

Want something for nothing? We mined Download.com to identify 10 excellent utilities that won't cost you a cent.

More spyware horror stories

(11/23/05)

We asked our readers to relay their worst encounters with spyware, and they responded with plenty of hair-raising accounts. This week: How a virtual PC can save your hide.

iTunes Advanced for the Mac

(11/18/05)

Apple's megapopular media player is pretty easy to use right out of the box. But if you want to get down and dirty with some of the more advanced features of iTunes for the Mac, you have to dig a bit deeper. Take iTunes to the next level using some of our tried and true tips. Then peruse some great add-ons.

More spyware horror stories

(11/16/05)

We asked our readers to relay their worst encounters with spyware, and they responded with plenty of hair-raising accounts. This week: Destruction of personal property.

The best free Internet software

(11/10/05)

Want something for nothing? We mined Download.com to identify 10 very useful yet totally free Internet applications.

iTunes Advanced for PC: updated

(11/8/05)

Want to quickly learn your way around iTunes 6? Our newly updated iTunes Advanced feature has tips and tricks to help you out, as well as a few add-ons to make this popular jukebox even better.

More spyware horror stories

(11/9/05)

We asked our readers to relay their worst encounters with spyware, and they responded with plenty of hair-raising accounts. This week: Watch your bank.

More spyware horror stories

(11/2/05)

We asked our readers to relay their worst encounters with spyware, and they responded with plenty of hair-raising accounts. This week: Nasty ads from a nasty program.

The best free audio and video software

(10/31/05)

Want something for nothing? We mined Download.com to identify the most entertaining free audio and video applications.

More spyware horror stories

(10/26/05)

We asked our readers to relay their worst encounters with spyware, and they responded with plenty of hair-raising accounts. This week: Transformed into a spammer.

The best free desktop-enhancement software

(10/20/05)

Want something for nothing? We mined Download.com to identify the coolest and handiest desktop-enhancement software.

More spyware horror stories

(10/19/05)

We asked our readers to relay their worst encounters with spyware, and they responded with plenty of hair-raising accounts. This week: Dark days, courtesy of Aurora.

More spyware horror stories

(10/12/05)

We asked our readers to relay their worst encounters with spyware, and they responded with plenty of hair-raising accounts. This week: An unpleasant encounter with BargainBuddy.

The best free design and photo software

(10/11/05)

Want something for nothing? We mined Download.com to identify the most useful freeware for your creative side.

More spyware horror stories

(10/5/05)

We asked our readers to relay their worst encounters with spyware, and they responded with plenty of hair-raising accounts. This week: Don't trust P2P files.

The best free Mac software

(9/27/05)

Want something for nothing? We mined Download.com to identify the sweetest Mac freeware available.

More spyware horror stories

(9/21/05)

We asked our readers to relay their worst encounters with spyware, and they responded with plenty of hair-raising accounts. This week: Why sharing a PC can spell trouble.

The best free home and education software

(9/20/05)

Want something for nothing? We mined Download.com to identify the most educational (and fun) freeware around.

More spyware horror stories

(9/14/05)

We asked our readers to relay their worst encounters with spyware, and they responded with plenty of hair-raising accounts. This week: Beware of wolves in sheep's clothing.

Parents' guide to online safety

(9/13/05)

Your children will surf the Web, chat, and download files. With some help from these software tools, you can protect them while they do what kids do.

More spyware horror stories

(9/7/05)

We asked our readers to relay their worst encounters with spyware, and they responded with plenty of hair-raising accounts. This week: What you should know before downloading software from Freeze.com.

Spyware Horror Stories

(8/11/05)

Download.com users are no strangers to the frightening world of spyware. Each week, we'll share a new reader tale of spyware woe. This week: Targeting minors is a major problem.

Meet the editors!

(7/18/05)

Ever wonder where all the great content on our site comes from? Our team of producers and editors hail from all over, with varied experience and interests. Find out more about us.

Message in a bottle

(7/7/05)

SOS! SOS! Eight Download.com staff members washed up on a remote tropical island. Here's the software they downloaded to get through the harrowing ordeal.

Get started with podcasting

(6/20/05)

What the heck is podcasting, and why should you care? Catch up on this tech craze with our beginner's guide.

Scrub away spyware

(6/8/05)

Webroot Spy Sweeper lets you guard your hosts file, control cookies, and schedule recurring scans. Find out how to put this powerhouse to work.

Better health through technology

(6/1/05)

Enhance your mental, physical, and spiritual well-being with a trip to our Healthy Living Center, where you'll find downloads and products that help you live your best life.

Audio-codec shoot-out

(5/24/05)

Is there an audible difference between WMA and MP3? Does OGG always sound better? We put four audio codecs to a listening test; find out which we think sound the best for different kinds of music.

Take photos further

(5/23/05)

Whether you're looking for tips on digital cameras, downloadable editing software, or photo sharing, you can find it in our Digital Photo Center.

Destroy spyware using Spybot

(4/25/05)

Even if you've been using Spybot - Search & Destroy for a while, you may not have explored all its features. These tips will help you fill in the blanks.

Don't get misdirected

(4/15/05)

Malicious software can change your hosts file so your bookmarks will take you to the wrong Web sites. We show you how to lock it down.

Protect your PC with Ad-Aware

(4/15/05)

Ad-Aware, a powerful free program, makes quick work of expelling ghastly spyware. This tutorial will get you up to speed with the program in no time.

Spyware Obstacle Course reloaded

(4/11/05)

Thelast time we ran some popular antispyware applications through our Spyware Obstacle Course, Spybot took first place. Find out which product performed best this time around.

Supercharge Office

(3/16/05)

Struggling to get Office to work with you? Use our guide to Office add-ins and improve your work flow.

Get more out of iTunes

(2/14/05)

Taking iTunes to the limit means getting familiar with its less-obvious settings. We show you how to get under the hood of this popular jukebox, then recommend add-ons for enhancing the experience.

Valentine's Day: Love it or leave it

(2/10/05)

Steeped in pagan ritual, Valentine's Day is many things to many people. Whether you plan to spend the holiday this year with your honey or Han Solo, this Love/Hate collection has something for you.

Spyware that makes kids cry

(2/4/05)

In our final spyware horror story, a mother relates an awkward encounter with a malicious piece of software that drove her young daughter to tears. Find out how to keep your own children safe.

These are a few of our favorite things

(12/23/04)

Get up-close and personal with the staff of Download.com--find out our favorite music, games, and software downloads of 2004.

Get started with Internet calls

(11/30/04)

Voice over IP, or VoIP, promises to make long-distance cheaper than ever, or even free. We've put together a guide to get your computer ready to connect to friends and family around the world.

Spyware Obstacle Course

(11/22/04)

We take five popular antispyware programs and run them through a grueling gauntlet of the most malicious spyware around. Find out who crosses the finish line first.

Stomp out spyware

(8/26/04)

Spyware is not only aggravating, it severely compromises your privacy. Fortunately, exiling these invaders from your machine is not as tough as you might think. No matter what kind of user you are, our feature tells you how to send the snoops packing.

Should you install Service Pack 2?

(8/11/04)

Microsoft released a major update to Windows that greatly enhances security. We tell you exactly what changes you can expect to see in Windows, Internet Explorer, and Outlook.

These are the champions

(7/20/04)

Find out which programs won the 2004 Shareware Industry Awards, which were picked by a panel of shareware developers. We also have the People's Choice Awards winners.

Spyware Center

(5/27/04)

Learn how to rid your computer of adware and spyware. Find out what you need to know about adware and how to prevent it from infecting your computer.

Speed-test your computer

(1/20/04)

Does your computer feel sluggish? Is it running slower than it should be? We show you how to run SANDRA to diagnose your computer and tweak its settings for maximum performance.

Build a DVD slideshow

(1/12/04)

Tired of thumbing through that old photo album? Create an interactive picture show that will work on most DVD players with Ulead DVD PictureShow. We show you how to get started.

Set up a surveillance system

(12/15/03)

With a simple Webcam, you can turn your computer into a high-tech burglar alarm. We show you how to set up home surveillance that alerts you when someone breaks in.

Create custom startup screens

(11/17/03)

Bored with the same Windows loading screen every time you turn on your machine? With Logo Organizer 2000, you can feast your eyes on fancy new graphics every time you start up or power down.

Blog from your desktop

(11/4/03)

Online journals, or blogs, are all the rage on the Internet. But how do you post your own? We show you how to use W.bloggar, a tool that lets you write and edit posts on your desktop, then post them to your blog.

Tame the paper trail

(10/20/03)

Tired of combing through that nasty tangle of paper documents? With a scanner and Readiris Pro, you can quickly turn the contents of your overflowing filing cabinet into easy-to-manage editable text.

Surf without a Net

(10/6/03)

Who needs Internet access just to surf the Web? With WebCopier, you can copy and save your favorite Web sites to your hard drive, so you still have something to surf the next time your DSL goes down.

Copy contest

(9/24/03)

Which backup utility do you use to save your everyday documents from hard-drive crashes and other disasters? We compare two top applications, CopyRite and Second Copy 2000, to decide on the best choice.

Keep your Web pages fresh

(9/22/03)

No one likes stale content, but Web-page updating can be a painstaking process. We show you how to use Macromedia Contribute to easily update the content of your site.

How to give your PC voice commands

(9/15/03)

Tired of typing in the same stuff day after day? Realize Voice is a great listener. The voice-recognition software lets you navigate your PC and the Web by voice alone. We show you how to set it up.

DVD deathmatch

(9/10/03)

The two powerhouse software DVD players, InterVideo WinDVD and CyberLink PowerDVD, compete head to head. Which one gives you the best display, controls, and extra features to be your personal hero?

How to rip audio streams

(9/8/03)

StreamRipper32 lets you easily capture Internet radio streams and break them into individual MP3 tracks, complete with artist and song information. We show you how to set it up.

How to animate your GIFs

(9/2/03)

You don't need to master Flash or DHTML to get a bit of animation on your Web site. Animate your GIFs with Ulead GIF Animator. We show you how to get started with simple animated images and text.

Uninstaller duel

(8/27/03)

Uninstaller programs aim to remove all traces of unwanted programs from your computer. We compare Ashampoo UnInstaller Suite with Advanced Uninstaller Pro to see which leaves you with a clean machine.

How to create a disk image

(8/25/03)

Protect yourself from the heartbreak of data loss by creating a disk image of your system. We show you how to make an exact copy of your current operating system and software using Acronis True Image.

How to add Flash to your Web site

(8/18/03)

Why settle for boring, static Web pages when you can spice them up with Flash animation? We show you an easy way to get started using SWiSH to create interactive graphics and text that won't stand still.

Erase your Internet trail

(8/13/03)

Getting rid of your Internet history cache protects your privacy and saves hard drive space. In our latest brawl, Window Washer goes up against Tracks Eraser Pro to see which one can deliver the cleanest knockout blow.

Find more files online

(8/11/03)

Tired of the "more sources needed" messages from your favorite file-sharing program? With Tifny you can easily find and download quality content from the original file-sharing service, Internet newsgroups.

Improve your computer's speed

(8/4/03)

Your computer picks up extra baggage over time that hampers its performance. Follow our tips for bringing your computer back to showroom condition, and keeping it that way.

Battle of the compression superstars

(7/30/03)

We pit veteran utility WinZip against up-and-comer WinRAR to find which most easily compresses your files and saves you the most hard drive space. A contest between these closely matched competitors promises excitement.

Sideline the spam

(7/21/03)

Sick of combing through unwanted messages about weight loss, wonder vitamins, and cheap time shares? POPFile works with your e-mail client and ISP to sideline the spam through intelligent filtering.

Dueling downloaders

(7/16/03)

A good download manager helps you recover gracefully from dropped Internet connections and computer crashes. We put the two top ones, Download Accelerator Plus and GetRight, side-by-side and see how they measure up.

Extreme makeover

(7/14/03)

Fire up DreamRender and breathe new life into your desktop design with animated wallpapers, icons, and mouse pointers. Choose a premade theme or customize your own.

Get Web users talking

(7/7/03)

Want to hear from your Web site visitors without fattening up your e-mail inbox? Quask FormArtist makes survey creation and data retrieval a simple and script-free process.

Picasa vs. ACDSee

(7/2/03)

Two powerful photo management applications, one chance at victory. Read our blow-by-blow comparison and see how these contenders stack up against each other.

Art for amateurs

(6/23/03)

Even if you don't know the difference between a Van Gogh and a velvet Elvis, ZBrush lets you create impressive 2D and 3D graphics, thanks to the software's intuitive painting tools and prebuilt effects.

Edit with the pros

(6/18/03)

WYSIWYG Web page generators merely get in the way of the seasoned HTML coder, but a good editor can help without hindering. We compare HTML Kit with AceHTML to see which has the tools and features to get your sites built.

Arrange files fast

(6/9/03)

AnyWhere Pro takes the turmoil and wasted time out of file management. Its collection of simple tools can move, copy, rename, or replace any number of files with a single mouse click.

Take your best shot

(6/2/03)

Give that Print Screen key a well-deserved rest with SnagIt. This simple screenshot utility can help you take a perfect picture of anything that appears on your PC's screen.

Speed up your system

(5/28/03)

Clean out the flotsam and jetsam collecting in the corners of your system. We compare Ashampoo WinOptimizer Suite with Advanced System Optimizer to see which does the best job.

Lost and found

(5/19/03)

Want to be able to locate files faster? Use Find to make a mini search engine from all your hard drive fodder, letting you quickly find any document, or e-mail by size, date, and even body text.

Ready, set, burn!

(5/14/03)

In our latest comparison, we let RecordNow Max and Nero Burning ROM battle it out to determine which software offers the most features and works the best for burning discs.

Free speech

(5/5/03)

Why shell out big bucks for basic long-distance? With a simple hardware setup and Gphone, you can talk to anyone over the Internet for as long as you want, without spending a dime.

Spybot vs. Ad-aware

(4/30/03)

Ad-aware and Spybot stand at the top of their class for defeating adware and spyware, but which one is the real king of the mountain? We put these downloader favorites into the ring and let the chips fall where they may.

Wallpaper gone wild

(4/28/03)

Tired of your PC's static backdrop? Add images, Flash animations, and even sound to your wimpy wallpaper with a little creativity and SWiSH 2.0.

Get faster CDs

(4/21/03)

Give your aging CD-ROM drive a rest by creating hard drive copies of all your favorite application and video game discs with Virtual Drive. Your hard drive will offer immediate and faster access to your CDs.

Media player rumble

(4/16/03)

In each corner is one of the biggest names in media playback and organization. We put them in the ring and let them duke it out. Which will emerge victorious? Follow our blow-by-blow commentary to find out.

Put your PIM online

(4/14/03)

What happens when you lose your Day-Timer, or your Palm Pilot runs out of juice? Load all your personal information onto the Web and access it from anywhere with the help of RedBox Organizer.

I want my MP3 TV!

(4/7/03)

Use an old computer to build an MP3 music server. We show you how to hook it up to your stereo system and TV, so MP3s become an integrated part of your entertainment center.

Build some character

(3/24/03)

Manipulate your favorite video game character?s shape, movement, and textures with MilkShape 3D. Customize characters and objects for Max Payne, Half-Life, The Sims, and many other popular games.

Winamp vs. JetAudio

(3/19/03)

Winamp or JetAudio? Winamp commands considerable popularity, but its 3.0 version gives JetAudio a fighting chance. We throw both in the ring to see which delivers the knockout punch.

Be a desktop director

(3/17/03)

Easily edit and add special effects to your humdrum home videos with Video Edit Magic. Turn your video scraps into movie magic.

Digitize your record collection

(3/3/03)

Turn your old record collection into sparklingly clear MP3s. From hardware to software, we show you what you need and how to do it.

Take a message

(2/24/03)

Build your own voicemail system in minutes. We show you how to use EzVoice to record greetings, create multiple voicemail boxes, and save your old messages.

Call up your computer

(2/18/03)

Remotely access your PC from almost anywhere. Remote Administrator lets you work on your desktop through a secure connection.

Make Web menus pop

(2/10/03)

Replace static menus on your Web site with animated DHTML menus that offer more compact navigation and look great.

Caught on tape

(2/3/03)

Record and edit all activity on your computer screen with Camtasia Studio to make the perfect tutorial or presentation.

Make your own music

(1/27/03)

Pump out any electronic jam you can dream up with Reason 2.0.

Easy 3D animations

(1/21/03)

Create professional-looking 3D animations in a matter of minutes with 3D Impact Pro.

Manhandle your music

(1/13/03)

Keep track of all your albums with Music Label 2003, whether they?re on MP3, CD, or good, old LP.

Make a date

(1/6/03)

Keep your appointments close at hand by building your own Web-friendly calendar.

Make your own MTV

(12/16/02)

Become the latest Hollywood hotshot by making your own music videos. ACD VideoMagic does all the hard work for you.

Design your own video game

(12/9/02)

Make the next Myst without hammering out a line of code. We show you how to get creative with Adventure Maker.

Diversify your disks

(12/2/02)

Make space for backups or dual boot systems by creating new partitions on your hard drive with Paragon Partition Manager.

Webify your photos

(11/25/02)

Creating a Web photo album involves a lot of tedious work, such as making thumbnails and coding JavaScript. We show you an easier way, using JAlbum to do the work for you.

Add your own spin to Winamp

(11/18/02)

Tired of the basic black and orange interface of Winamp? With a little inspiration and a few minutes you can put a new face on the tried and true application by building your own skin.

Go from VHS to DVD

(11/11/02)

Wipe the dust off your old home videos and convert them to state-of-the-art DVDs.

Glossy interactive greetings

(11/04/02)

Wow your friends and family with custom-built electronic greetings using Ecardiy.

Work around Windows

(10/28/02)

TweakAll lets you decree how your version of Windows will behave. We show you how to optimize and personalize your OS.

Tear down the IM wall

(10/21/02)

Trillian chews the fat with every major instant messenger service, using one simple interface.

Typeface tutorial

(10/14/02)

The Font Creator Program lets you modify existing fonts or come up with your own. We show you how to make unique fonts.

Make 3D text

(10/8/02)

Designing 3D text doesn't have to be difficult. We show you how to use Xara3D to animate and export your text for use on your Web site.

Roll your own icons

(10/1/02)

The default look of Windows is hopelessly vanilla. Those bland folder and desktop icons work, but they're far from flashy. We show you how to make your own icons.

Time for your close-up

(8/26/02)

With a CD-RW burner you can create videodiscs viewable with a standard DVD player. We show you how.

How to create a slide show

(8/19/02)

Digital pictures easily get buried in remote corners of your hard drive, but you can bring them to light with a slide show.

Get your message out

(8/12/02)

We show you how to use Easy Mail Plus to print personalized letters and envelopes from a customer database.

Hack-proof your computer

(8/7/02)

Installing a firewall is easier than you think. We take you step-by-step through configuring ZoneAlarm Pro.

Make your computer literate

(8/5/02)

We show you how to give your computer a voice so it can read out loud. You will never go without a bedtime story again.

How to organize and bill clients

(7/29/02)

Organizing your invoices is essential to running a small business. We show you how easy it is with the right software.

Save your screen with style

(7/22/02)

We show you how to build a screensaver using your own images and audio files, with effects to dazzle your friends.

How to create Web graphics

(7/10/02)

Learn how to use two programs that help even those of us without a modicum of artistic talent create lovely Web graphics.

How to manage shareware registration

(7/9/02)

Managing shareware registration is tough, but the Software Administration Kit can make it easier.

How to make an MP3 mix

(7/3/02)

Learn how to organize your MP3s into groovy mixes using MusicMatch Jukebox.

Clean up your PC

(6/3/02)

Learn how to clear out the file clutter on your hard drive, making space available and improving performance on your system.

How to make an auto-installer

(3/11/02)

If you build software, you need to make sure users have an easy time installing it on their systems. We walk you through two popular install makers.

How to send faxes from your PC

(2/20/02)

Send paper documents around the world at e-mail speed by turning your computer into a fax machine. Fax directly or via an Internet service.

How to remote control your computer

(2/7/02)

Need to manage multiple computers, but don't want to wear out your shoes? VNC lets you access a computer as if you were at its keyboard.

How to create software patches

(1/8/02)

Use shareware to make patches for your software applications and quickly get your users up on the latest version.

How to generate PDF files without Adobe Acrobat

(12/21/01)

Don't shell out $200 for Adobe Acrobat. Get shareware applications that let you create PDF files from any document creation program.

Adversarial adware

The wrong kind of adware can report your personal information and your Internet activity. Find out how to detect it and stop it.