Free PDF creator - Easily create PDF files

Often you need to create a PDF file when sharing a document.

One application I have found particular useful in doing this is PDFCreator, which is a free, open-source software. You can create PDF files from documents, spreadsheets, presentations, emails, websites and virtually any file that can be printed. It works as a virtual printer so if you can print it, you can turn it into a PDF document.

To create a PDF file, when the software is installed, select to print the the document and select as a printer, PDFCreator.

Couldn't be any easier.

You can download the software here for free.

Easily backup your computer - save time and effort

There is probably nothing more frustrating than discovering that you have lost all your data on the hard drive or the computer has been stolen. Not to mention if it’s your life's work we’re talking about…

I´m constantly surprised by how few people actually seem to backup their data. Maybe it’s because it can take time and very few expect their computer to crash or all of a sudden disappear. Trying to recover a failed hard drive can however be extremely costly and no success is guaranteed.

I have tried various methods and programs to back up my computer. The best and easiest solution I have found is a simple, automatic, secure online backup provided by Carbonite. It’s an unlimited online backup for one flat fee. It's extremely easy to use and they offer a free trial period. It’s like buying insurance for your data which in my opinion is worth it when you think about what a disaster losing all your data could be.

Carbonite is a small application on your computer that works quietly in the background looking for new and changed files that needs to be backed up. When the computer is idle, the software automatically backs up the new and changed files. You don't have to do anything and copy of your data is stored in a secure, remote location for safekeeping so in the event of disaster your data is still retrievable, which can be a lifesaver.

This couldn't be any easier. You can download the software here if interested.

Keep windows always on top...

One of the feature I have never quite understood why Microsoft hasn't included in its operating system Windows, is the ability to choose what programs you want to have always on top.

Well, I have found this very neat program, DeskPins (free of charge!), which can be used to make any application topmost, that is, to keep it above all other windows. You just grab a pin from the DeskPins icon in the system notification area (taskbar tray) and click on any window. This functionality is identical to the "Always on Top" setting found in some programs. With DeskPins you can add this feature to any program and save you time and effort!

You no longer have to switch desktop windows when working simultaneously in more than one program and save both time and effort.

Highly recommended (free) software

Here I assembled a list of software I use frequently for various tasks with good results.

Best of all, they are free and don't include any spy- or adware.

VLC - Media player

Mozilla Firefox - Web browser

OpenOffice - The Free and Open Productivity Suite

Foxit Reader - A small and fast PDF viewer

Picasa - Organize, edit, and share your photos

Skype - Make free calls over the internet to other people on Skype

AVG - Antivirus and Security Software

Smart Defrag - Efficient Defragmenter which makes your PC work faster

Glary Utilities - Powerful and All-in-one Utility to Fix, Speed up, Maintain and Protect your PC

ZoneAlarm - Firewall that Blocks Hackers from Infiltrating Your Home PC