Utility

Stickies

Tired of not being able to see your computer screen thanks to the little post-it notes and reminders that have filled it up? If you are, then you might want to get Stickies as an alternative instead. Stickies is a PC utility that you can use on your computer screen to jot down notes and other important tasks that you might want to do and remember throughout the day. It works just like a regular sticky note except its posted right in your computer screen. No more messy computer screens for you! Stickies contains plenty of great features like alarms, different colors and sizes, network sharing and a nice function where you can attach the note to a particular window.

MP3 Diags

Tired of having to go through your mp3 files and trying to figure out which one will work and which one won't? If you need help in sorting, fixing and changing information on your audio files, then you have a handy helper in MP3 Diags. MP3 Diags is a program that will help organize information in your audio library, scan and fix any corrupted files that might be stashed away somewhere and will even allow you to take a glimpse inside the body of an MP3 file. Essentially, the program is an efficient way of fixing your music files.

Photorec

Lost all of your precious image files because of that recent computer reformat? If you are looking for a free and easy way to recover these lost images, files and even videos, then Photorec is the software you've been looking for. Photorec is an open source software that can recover various file types from corrupted hard disks, CDs or even removable or portable storage systems. This little tool can definitely assist you in recovering your files even if the main system has become severely corrupted or formatted. Even better is that it won't clog up your system since it's only 5.71 MB for a full installation.

Freemind

Want something to help you get down all those great ideas instead of randomly writing it down a scratch of paper? Then go ahead and give Freemind a try. This is an excellent software to use if you want to get all your ideas down since it helps you to map out your thoughts and organize them for better access. Back in school, one of the most basic things that teachers taught us when getting ideas down is to put them on a layout or structure. Seeing the visual layout often helps plenty of people. If you think this can help you, then Freemind is a software that is right your alley.

TrueCrypt – freeware encryption program

When it comes to storing sensitive files on your hard drive, it's a great idea to make sure that it is protected. Freeware is the ultimate freeware encryption program that you can download for free to help protect your data. The software contains 11 algorithms to help protect your private files and ensure that they are safe. TrueCrypt creates encrypted volumes including 256-bit AES and 448 bit Blowfish. Truecrypt is also great when it comes to protecting your data on mobile devices. It can work on security tokens as well as smart cards as well.

Kid Key Lock – keep kids’ (and pets’) hands away from your computer

Kid Key Lock is a freeware which allows you to disable keyboard and/or mouse functions. You can choose to disable all keys, or choose only specific system commands. You can also disable different mouse keys, as well as the usage of all mouse & keyboard inputs. Its primary purpose is to let toddlers or kids play around your computer without pressing unwanted programs and commands. Of course, this can also be useful for your pets who love to sit on your keyboard or who like to play with the mouse when you aren't there.

Comodo Firewall + Antivirus – protect your Windows

Comodo Firewall + Antivirus is a free security suite which allows users to have the protection of both a firewall and an antivirus. There are many options for advanced users, although it is also quite simple for beginners and entry-level users. Comodo is currently available for 32-bit and 64-bit Windows users. However, you have to keep your attention on the installation to opt out of SafeSearch and toolbar options.

ImgBurn – a free CD, DVD, HD-DVD and BluRay burner

ImgBurn is a light-weight program designed to burn CDs, DVDs, HD-DVDs and Blu-ray discs. This free software supports many file formats such as CUE, BIN, ISO, IMG, NRG, and features an 'Advanced' mode where users can edit the total layout of files and folders in the disc. ImgBurn allows you to burn just about anything in a single and easy-to-use software. It is available as a free download for Windows, and supports a wide array of languages.