software junkies

beeboy · #1 08-28-2003, 02:16 PM

I admit it. I'm a software junky. If its free and it sounds good I try it. My latest discovery is Gaim for windows. I have used this program in Linux for years and was pleased to find a windows version recently. It is an instant messenging program that allows you to access Windows messenger, Yahoo messenger, ICQ, Irc, and more I have not heard of. And it will access all of these at the same time. Much like the popular Trillian. I currently use it for icq and windows messenger and it works excellently. I do not need the icq software at all. It is still in developement being a beta version and bugs may exist. There are no ads or spyware. Gaim is not pretty or splashy but it is easy to use and very functional for those having several IM needs. The windows version with installer (gaim-0.67-debug.exe) is here.

http://sourceforge.net/projects/gaim/

beeboy · #2 08-30-2003, 11:05 PM

I've been looking for a way to exchange files with friends and family for a long time. I used WWWFileshare which is terrific but is reliant on your ip address. If you have a dynamic ip like mine it changes occasionally. This makes WWW kind of awkward.
I recently discovered Foldershare. It is very unique and the ideal setup for family and friends. It can be as private as you like with you in total control of what you share, how you share, and who you share with. FS encrypts downloads/uploads making the file sharing experience safe and secure - probably a tool business would find interesting as well. 2 people that have the software installed can upload, download, update, or alter the libraries depending upon permissions. Only one person owns the files and has total control and delegates what others can do. For people who not have the program all they need to do is open an account with Foldershare to be able to download files from a friend. They can only download. Of course, you are limited to what bandwidth and hard drive space is available to you. I found the program to work nicely.
http://www.foldershare.com/

beeboy · #3 09-05-2003, 11:22 PM

With the number of Outlook posts I see here, I wonder why more people do not use something else. Foxmail is a good alternative to outlook. I've been using it for some time and find it excellent. It can handle multiple pop3 accounts as well as retrieve hotmail. It is totally secure with user password protected accounts. It has a myriad of features including templets, html messages, message preview, mailbox encryption, express send, mail ticker, and filtering. The whole program is very configurable.
http://fox.foxmail.com.cn/english.htm

And the best part is - you can uninstall it if you do not like it unlike outlook (xp)

beeboy · #4 09-08-2003, 10:22 PM

It has been recommended in the forum several times. This free program is fantastic. It will tell you more than you will ever want to know about your computer. Makes, models, serial numbers of hardware. Details of your operating system and software. By default it is capable of benchmarking your ram. With more plugins you can test your hard drives, monitor, and network. It can tell you the temperatures of your cpu and motherboard. It can tell you voltages and cooling fan rpms. The program will even point out errors or make suggestions in many areas. I have not seen a program as detailed as this one. It is where I go first in diagnosing problems or anything else I need to know about my system. http://www.aida32.hu/aida32.php

ESALADUANE · #5 09-09-2003, 06:07 AM

Aida32, Irfanview and Ad-aware are three programs that I'm really surprised are still free. jv16PowerTools used to be in that category, but the developer finally got smart and started charging for it.

beeboy · #6 09-09-2003, 01:50 PM

I am amazed at the variety and quality of free programs available. Many developers make money by offering a "pro" version which may offer more features and better support. Many developers rely on donations. If you really like a free program please support the developer by upgrading to their pro version or donating a few bucks. Many of these developers are one man shows who really need our support in order to keep improving and developing programs. I will keep listing free ones here that I think are worthwhile.

beeboy · #7 09-09-2003, 09:09 PM

Good old Roboform. It has been around for a few years now and just gets better and better. It is still free but with limitations. Free version is limited to 30 passcards and 3 users.
Anyone who has several logins or email account sign-ins or who does a lot of form filling online will love this program. It does all the work for you. It is a real pleasure to go to my hotmail, yahoo, etc. email and be logged in automatically.
Roboform is very secure. All data is encrypted and only accessable by applying the master password. Do not forget the password. Roboform will even generate secure passwords for you.
I like the safenote feature. It is just plain handy for jotting down thoughts and reminders. And the note is secure from prying eyes.
Roboform is constantly updated. I have yet to find a website it will not work on. It is a must- have tool for me.
http://www.roboform.com/