Pidgin -
http://www.pidgin.im
Pidgin is a multi-platform instant messaging client. The software supports many commonly used instant messaging protocols, allowing the user to log into various different services from one application.
Paint.NET -
http://www.getpaint.net
Open-source image editor that has evolved from a simple replacement for the Microsoft Paint program, which is included with Windows, into a powerful editor with support for layers, blending, transparency, and plugins. Simple and easy to use.
Comodo Firewall -
http://www.personalfirewall.comodo.com/
Freeware firewall developed by that provides protection on a Microsoft Windows operating system from both inbound and outbound attacks.
KeePass Password Safe -
http://keepass.info
KeePass Password Safe is a password management utility for Microsoft Windows. KeePass stores passwords, usernames, and URLs in an encrypted database unlocked by a password, key file, or a combination of the two. The database is encrypted with AES or Twofish encryption ciphers.
uTorrent -
http://www.utorrent.com
µTorrent is a lightweight and efficient BitTorrent client for Windows with many features.
IE7Pro -
http://www.ie7pro.com
IE7Pro is an add-on for Internet Explorer which adds lots of features and extras that make your IE easier, more useful, more secure and more customizable. I feel Firefox and Opera are superior browsers, but if you find you use Internet Explorer now and then why not expand it's feature-set?
In addition, here are a few of my favorite Firefox add-ons to extend its functionality (Google to find them):
- Adblock Plus - block ads
- Download Statusbar - integrates downloads into statusbar, no separate window
- Fasterfox - tweaks settings for faster page loading
- Forecastfox - weather status
- Greasemonkey - install
scripts that make
on-the-fly changes to most HTML-based
web pages, ie you can use it to bypass those sherdog ad pages when viewing news posts
- Linkification - makes URL text links clickable
- Stealther - search the web without leaving a trace in Firefox
- Tab Mix Plus - added Tab functionality
- Tab Scope - tab previews on hover
