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Free Software to download.

All of the software listed below is free to home users, (at the time this page was published) -including updates where required, and better than some of the 'bought' versions.

All the software can be removed by using it's 'uninstall' option in the Program menu (if available) or from Control Panel - Add/Remove programs list.

Tip - When downloading software (not just from here), always choose 'Save', and then browse to where you want to save it.
Desktop is the easiest place to find it, and you can move it later.
Once downloaded and installed, move it to a folder (eg Create a 'Downloads' Folder, in My Documents) so you can find it later.
This way, you don't have to search for it and download it again, in case you need to reinstall it some time in the future.
Subsequent downloads can be saved in 'Downloads' folder via the 'browse' option in the 'Save' window.

Please report any broken links here, and they will be updated.

    Anti-Spyware

    Ad-Aware

    An excellent free spyware program. Comes top in the rankings for Spyware programs (including paid-for). Click here to check Ranking.

    Will warn if updates are older than 30 days old.

    Website - www.lavasoft.de

    Download latest version - click here.

    Then click on the 'Download now' link. Approx 2.5Mb (1min on b/band - 10-15mins on dial-up).

    When downloaded, double-click the file to install.

    After Installation, check for updates on the main page. Then do a full system scan.

    Note - The free version does not check for spyware unless you run it.
    If you want it running all the time (like Anti-virus) you will have to pay for the full version, but normally there is no need.
    Just run once a week after checking for updates.

    Firewall

    ZoneAlarm

    Another good 'free' program, regularly in top 5. Always active.

    Blocks all traffic into your PC, and only allows internet connections from programs that you 'Allow'.

    Advises of any 'security' updates that are available.

    Website - www.zonelabs.com

    Download latest version - click here Although they keep moving it about and it can be hard to find sometimes. Approx 6.5Mb (3mins b/band - 40mins dial-up)

    When downloaded, double-click the file to install.

    After installation you will be asked which version you want to use.
    Two columns will be shown with ticks against it's capabilities.
    Choose the Zone Alarm 1, with only 1 tick against the Internet Firewall.
    The other 1 gives you a 30-day trial of the pro version, then you have to pay to use it.

    Follow the installation wizard through, and read the tutorial if required.

    You will be asked if you want to start the program, and may have to reboot.

    When done, any program that tries to connect to the internet will bring up a warning from ZoneAlarm advising you.

    You then have the options of 'Allow' or 'Deny', with a 3rd tick-box to 'Always remember' (so you don't get asked every time it tries to connect)

    If there is a 'Security' update available, just click on the link in the window that opens, and download it.
    Then double-click the file to install the update.

    Extra security

    Startup Monitor

    A must-have program. Always active.

    This is 1 program you should not be without. Download it - here. Approx 60kb...... no time at all.

    Extract the files from the 'zip' folder, and double-click StartupMonitor.exe to install.

    A very small program that runs constantly in the background, checking for programs or files that add themselves to your startup lists. (eg msconfig - startup, Windows - programs - Startup Folder etc)
    That means they will start the next time you switch your PC on, or restart your PC
    This can be any kind of program or file, such as Virus, Spyware, AutoDialer, Web-page launcher, Toolbar/Searchbar etc, etc.

    Note - Just opening a web-page can install this kind of program/file, or it can be attached to another program you install.

    Startup Monitor watches for anything adding itself to your startup lst, and pops up a small window, asking you if you want to allow it.
    Click 'Yes' or 'No'........ can't be easier.

    Startup Monitor also adds an icon in your 'All Programs' menu - 'Stop Startup Monitor'. Self explanatory.

    Downloading

    DAP (Download Accelerator Plus)

    Just as it says, a download accelerator.
    Helps speed up your downloads by connecting to multiple sites for the same file.

    Not as much of an issue if you are on broadband, but with a bonus.

    It has a 'Resume' option....... If a download gets stopped part-way through, for whatever reason, you would normally have to start all over again.

    Not with DAP. Just click on 'Resume'..... and it carries on from where it left off.

    Website - www.speedbit.com.

    Download - Just go to the website and click on 'Download DAP free' button. Approx 3Mb(1min b/band - 20mins dialup)

    Double-click the file when downloaded, to install.

    DAP should automatically jump in when you click on a download link, and carry out the download.
    If it doesn't (depends on the link) you can right-click on the link itself and choose 'Download with DAP'

    Advises when an update is available

    Tweaks

    TweakUI

    A Powertoy Tool from microsoft. Originally came out with W95 but microsoft removed it from Windows CD. Now with XP, they released it again.

    This program gives you access to hidden (or hard to find) Windows settings, to allow you to make adjustments to enhance your PC so your PC starts faster. eg.

    Decrease the boot-up delay.
    Remove the Loading screen.
    Remove programs from Add/Remove software list. Removes the item in the list if you have tried to uninstall something and get an error.
    Repair Icons. When your default icons get corrupted/changed and you cannot change them back.
    etc etc .......

    Website - www.microsoft.com

    Download TweakUI here Less than 200kb

    When downloaded, just double-click to install.