Where's the free stuff

[ComputerSlayer]

Not too sure where to start this thread.

I’m just starting out in the business of fixing computer and obviously my budget is tight. There must be tons of freebie (freeware) programs, utilities etc out there. What free software could you computer fixers not do without? With so many programmers saying their product is the best and the odd false testimonials, I don’t want to get my fingers or wallet burnt. Obviously, when the cash starts flowing, a few ‘blats’ will make there way to the writers of good software. A brief description and a url to the download site would be of use
I’m sure this thread and the information given will be of use to many of the forum member as well.

 

[bcastner]

I would add Windows Ultimate Boot CD to this earlier listing:

http://www.windowsubcd.com/index.htm

The Microsoft Antispyware Beta:

http://www.microsoft.com/athome/security/spyware/software/default.mspx

And all the anti-malware tools linked in faq608-4650

The earlier thread: thread779-658267

 

[shane25119]

forget the MS anti spyware program... go for AdAware lavasoft.com and Spybot safernetworking.org, also AVG virus scanner free edition grisoft.com and ZoneAlarm Free Edition zonelabs.com

 

[JBruyet]

HFnetCHKPro v4 from Shavlik is free up to 10 computers, Ethereal is a very competent network sniffer, Western Digital has an interesting hard drive testing utility (and it works on everything I've thrown at it) and I think GFI has a couple of products that are free as long as they're for just a few computers. I'd recommend doing a Google search on free software and including the type of software you're looking for--network sniffers, patch testers, memory testing utilities, etc...

Just a few thoughts,

Joe Brouillette