By Nate Cavalieri
(11/23/05)
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.
Anyone who has explored the world of free utilities knows the woes of saving a few bucks. But have heart, ye short of dollars; when it comes to boosting performance, snagging spyware, or protecting your privacy, Download.com has software that debunks that old saying about the mythical free lunch. If you need a beefy, dynamic FTP client, SmartFTP is tough to beat. Does your PC sound as if it's about to go into orbit? Look under the hood with SpeedFan. Ridding yourself of gnarly spyware and the associated headaches won't cost you a penny with HijackThis, Microsoft AntiSpyware, or Spybot - Search & Destroy. When it comes to utilities, here are 10 of our frugal favorites.
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 & Destroy
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.
HijackThis
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.
BCArchive
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.
