noobatlife

So you’ve reinstalled Windows, ran windows-update, installed all your device drivers - Now what? Here’s some of the best programs to install after a format. Some are free, some cost a few bucks.. but make no mistake these are the best of the best.

1. FFDShow

Forget codec packs, this is all you’ll ever need. FFDShow has played every audio and video file I’ve ever thrown at it, and the best part is - its free (GPL!). Install it once and never worry about codecs again. Pro tip: setup the normalisation filter and all your audio will play at the same volume.

Download: Free-Codecs.com (free, domain sounds dodgy I know - but the site is clean)

2. ESET NOD32 Antivirus

Everyone has their favorite and this is mine. I’ve played with basicly every AV product out there and this wins for me hands down. It’s solid, has a small footprint, doesn’t annoy the shit out of you with popup and the results speak for themselves.

Download: ESET.com (30-day Trial versiona avaliable, $59/1yr - It’s worth it)

3. FlashGet

The FlasGet site says it all - “Best Download Manager”. Great for pulling insane download speeds with Easynews. I like the simple interface, and the fact that is just works. Has all the features I need (scheulding, secure site support, multi-threading).

Download: FlashGet.com (free)

4. Filezilla

Filezilla is a great little free FTP client, opensource too! A great example of how great software doesn’t need to cost a thing. For anyone who runs a website, this is a must-have.

Download: Filezilla-Project.org (free)

5. 7-Zip

Say bye-bye to that expired WinRAR trial.. say hello to 7-Zip! From the website:  “7-Zip is a file archiver with a high compression ratio.” It’ll unpack all popular formats (RAR, CAB, ISO, ARJ, LZH, CHM, MSI, WIM, Z, CPIO, RPM, DEB and NSIS) and has the same right-click functioanily as WinRAR (except its free!).

Download: 7-Zip.org (free)

6. Foxit Reader

Don’t waste your time with Adobe Reader’s bloat - Foxit Reader is smaller (2.55M), faster (loads in 1-2sec) and free! No need to worry about compatibility either, Foxit will handle any PDF on the web.

Download: FoxitSoftware.com (free)

7. FireFox

Faster, more secure and more customisable, Firefox is the web-browser that needs no introduction (but I gave it one anyway). FF is catching groud fast on IE in terms of market share which is a pretty mean feat considering IE ships with Windows and most people are lazy!

Download: Mozilla.com (free)

8. µTorrent

I’m not into torrents so much these days but µTorrent is easily the best BitTorrent client out there (most popular too!). You have the choice of a full installer, or stand alone exe. You’re most likely already using this so I won’t bore you too much with the details, but one of the best features for me is the Web Interface which lets you manage your torrents remotely.

Download: uTorrent.com (free)

9. OpenOffice

Because we all get .doc / .xls files sent to us that we need to open! Why steal MS Office when this great free alternative is avaliable? Check it out today, recoommend to friends!

Download: OpenOffice.org (free)

10. iTunes

I’ve always hated iTunes but lately it’s been growing on me. Especially now with my iPhone I use it everyday and I’ll admit I’m starting to like it. I even use the store to preview songs before I download them (from Easynews).

Download: Apple.com (free, don’t enter your email)

Well there you have it, my list of what to install after a format.

Please add your suggestions in the comments because I’d love to know if you think there’s better apps out there!

This entry was posted on Sunday, August 24th, 2008 at 7:51 am and is filed under downloading.