Here's a list of some handy open source and other free software that I use or have recommended...

• Open Office Suite [1]: This suite of productivity tools includes professional grade word processing, spreadsheet, presentation, drawing, and database software and is loaded with features.

• CDBurnerXP [2]: I use this software to make data and music CDs and burn data DVDs. The latest version will even burn Blu-Ray high-def DVD movies.

• Audacity [3]: This is an outstanding cross-platform audio recording and sound editing package.

• Gimp [4]: A free, open source professional level photo editing/processing package. Raw shooters will also want UFRaw [5].

• PDFCreator [6]: This open source package lets you create PDF files from any Windows application that can print.

• Foxit PDF Reader [7]: Small, fast, lightweight PDF reader with lots of features, works on older systems with limited resources.

• KompoZer [8]: A free, open source website/HTML editor. I have used this a few times and it's pretty slick. Future development is unclear, but the latest release works great.

• Avast Antivirus [9]: I have used the free home edition of this popular antivirus software. Previous versions had a small footprint and would run on older systems with limited resources. Don't know about the newer versions.

Not Windows, but:

• Drupal [10]: Content management for blogs and other frequently updated sites, geared for community participation. (This site uses Drupal.)

• WordPress [11]: Widely supported and arguably the best blog software for single blogger or small groups. Lots of development, plugins, themes, etc.

What are some of your favorites/recommendations? (Has anyone found a good open source video editor? Pinnacle Studio Plus does a pretty good job for less than $100.)