Spybot Search and Destroy v1.3: Search your hard disk for so-called spybots or adbots, the modules that are responsible for showing ads and transmitting information back to vendors. If Spybot Search and Destroy finds such modules, it will remove them or replace them with empty dummies. In most cases, the host software still runs after removing the bot. Among the adbots Spybot targets: Aureate, CLPRS, Comet Cursors, eZula HotText, Gator, GoHip, Radiate, WebHancer, and WildTangent. Spybot also removes your usage tracks (last visited Web sites, opened files, started programs, and cookies), so even spybots that are unknown can't transmit this private information. The program supports all three major browsers: Internet Explorer, Netscape Communicator, and Opera.

Ad-Aware SE Personal v1.06:   Whether you already have Ad-Aware or are trying it out for the first time, the latest version of this free spyware-removal tool is an essential component of any Windows system. As many of us know, Ad-Aware pulls the plug on adware and spyware. The utility scans your system--including removable drives--for the most common types of advertising spyware and safely removes offending software. The utility detects small ad programs from Adware, Aureate/Radiate, OnFlow, Comet-Cursor, Cydoor, Doubleclick, EverAd, Flyswat, OnFlow, TimeSink 5.0, and others. This latest version lets you scan your disk faster, using less CPU power and memory. As many of us know, spyware refers to small, hidden programs that are embedded in larger applications to report information to advertisers. These programs are included in some shareware and freeware programs because, unfortunately, that's the only way some software developers can pay their bills. If you don't want any part of this--and feel that these hidden programs invade your privacy--you should definitely consider downloading Ad-Aware.

ZoneAlarm Free 5.5:   If you have DSL or a cable modem, your IP address is permanent. Although this has benefits, it also carries the serious shortcoming of rendering your PC vulnerable to attacks. A firewall, in this respect, becomes not just desirable but a necessity. ZoneAlarm is a top choice, and best of all, the basic version is free. You can block uninitiated and unwanted traffic, even while your PC is unattended or while you're not using your connection. You can also limit your exposure to attack by specifying which applications can access the Internet. The program also lets you stop e-mail-borne Visual Basic Script worms.

Startup Control Panel v2.8:  Tired of always launching the same programs when your system boots up? This applet allows you to automatically launch programs when your system starts up. Of course, you can do that manually, by changing entries in your Registry. But this program's simple interface lets you avoid that confusion--and best of all, the program is free.

HijackThis v1.99:   Detect and remove components that help hijackers change your browser's homepage. HijackThis includes a dozen checks against hijacker tricks. The program does not target specific programs/URLs; instead, it protects you against the methods used by hijackers to force you onto their sites. The program is continually updated to detect and remove new hijacks.

Motherboard Monitor v5.3.7:   An overheated computer is an unhappy computer. This handy program reads temperature and fan RPM data collected by your system's BIOS, displays it in the Windows system tray, and alerts you when there's trouble. You can use this application to manage your resources and alarms by doing things like setting an alarm to go off, or having an email sent to another computer, when your motherboard starts to overheat. You could even have programs start and stop when your CPU reaches predetermined temperatures.

Tweak UI v1.33:  Free yourself from the tyranny of ordinary Windows with this extra set of tools (also called PowerToys) created by Microsoft developers. Adjust menu speed and window animation. Move the StartUp folder up the Explorer hierachy, or move the My Documents folder to another drive. If you get the "No Help topic is associated with this item" message when you access the help menu, Tweak UI may have answers. The tool set also offers quick fixes for adding and removing items to your right-click New menu. And you may get a second chance at recovering lost uninstall options (but only if you've installed the program while the original uninstall list in Control Panel is intact). Note: Because these tools are not part of Windows, they are not supported by Microsoft, and Microsoft's technical support team is unable to answer any questions about them.

Sygate Personal Firewall v5.6:   Protect your data from malicious hackers and prevent unauthorized access to your files from inside your network. You can adjust Sygate Personal Firewall's settings regarding applications, trusted IP addresses, ports, protocols, and scheduling to secure many types of network configurations or requirements. Its online tools can check your system and locate security vulnerabilities. These active scans report the number, nature, and severity of system-security risks. You can then adjust the security status of your system at any time and audit the effectiveness of your entire system-security policy.