Top 10 Free Tools for the Desktop

Was playing around today on my machine, trying to automate everything on my notebook, when I realised how many Open Source tools I use.

This started me thinking about compiling a list of my favourite Open Source tools, and here goes:

1. FireFox ( # )

Open Source web browser, faster and more secure.  By default first on the list, can’t live without it!

2. 7zip ( # )

Used to use an evaluation version of Winzip for windows, but 7zip is so much better, compress to tgz and tar files. That’s the way to go.

3. Digsby ( # )

Digsby, the all-in-one instant messanger and social networking tool.  Twitter,Facebook,Google Talk,MSN,Jabber etc.

4. uTorrent ( # )

I used other Bittorrent clients, but this one is the best, and the most effective bandwidth throttler and scheduler, wish I could get it for normal downloads(HTTP and FTP).

5. VLC Media Player ( # )

The only media player you need, plays almost anything you throw at it!

6. FileZilla FTP Client and Server ( # )

What else 😉

7. WinSCP ( # )

Support various protocols including FTP,SFTP,FTPS etc.  Ideal for connecting to your linux boxes over SSH for transferring files across.

8. KillCopy ( # )

Don’t let the looks fool you. This is a new one on my list, started using it a few weeks ago, and so far I’m impressed.  I usually use it whilst copying big files or leaching.  Check out the drag and drop on the window to add files to the queue.

9. Audacity ( # )

Got this installed, and primarily I’m using this free Audio tool for recording workshops I hold with clients.  Sometimes it does feel a bit heavy but seems to only be the GUI though and not really on resources.

10. Notepad++ ( # )

Small appliation I use as the standard Notepad application.  Very powerful with various language support and highlighting.   Saved me a couple of time when receiving weird-formatted files.

Well, of course there are lots more, but these are the once I use daily.

What do you guys use that could be better than the tools I use above ?

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