Gizmo's Best-ever Freeware

Get the 250 Best Free Online PC Games in One Place

Tue, 30 Jun 2009 17:47:36 +1000

Many web sites offer free online PC games but most are packed full of advertisements and have games of very variable quality. Our editor Jojo Yee has discovered a great site that not only offers an outstanding selection of online PC games but is largely free of ads as well. As a bonus, many games offer full screen play.

How Windows 7 and Vista 64 Support 32 bit Applications

Tue, 30 Jun 2009 17:40:13 +1000

Until I read this article by our editor Rik Mayell, I didn't really fully understand how 64 bit versions of Windows manage to run 32 bit applications. Now it is crystal clear. If you are thinking of going to a 64 bit version of Windows including Windows 7, then you simply must read this article.

Download YouTube Videos Easily And Quickly

Wed, 24 Jun 2009 01:48:55 +1000

There are dozens of different ways of downloading YouTube videos but this free web service is one of the simplest as it requires no special software which means it can be done on any computer. As a bonus you have a wide choice of download formats. It's so easy to use even a six year old child could manage it.

A Freebie that Integrates Gmail, Yahoo Mail into Windows

Wed, 24 Jun 2009 01:43:56 +1000

Web based email services are great but they don't work well from inside Windows. So for example, if you click an email link on a web page Windows will most likely start your desktop email client not your Gmail account.

This freebie overcomes this limitation and allows you to use Gmail and Yahoo mail just like a desktop client. We liked it.

The Best Free Software for 64 bit Vista and Windows 7

Fri, 19 Jun 2009 00:38:37 +1000

Our editor Rik Mayell has just updated his popular guide to free software that will run on 64 bit Vista to include 64 bit Windows 7 as well.

So stop lamenting the lack of software that works with these Windows versions. You'll find plenty of free stuff here.

How to Build and Host a Website for Free

Wed, 17 Jun 2009 22:54:37 +1000

Most articles on this subject are either uselessly simplistic or thinly disguised attempts to sell you web hosting. In contrast, this two part guide by senior editor Chris Price is well researched and full of useful practical advice from a man who knows the subject thoroughly. It's the sort of advice that people really need but rarely get.

The Best Windows Explorer Add-ons

Wed, 17 Jun 2009 22:42:00 +1000

OK, I 'fess up; I made a boo boo. In a post yesterday I wrongly labeled this item "The Best Internet Explorer Add-ons". This was incorrect. It should have been the "The Best Windows Explorer Add-ons." You have my sincere apologies for any inconvenience this may have caused.

That aside, I must say this list of Windows Explorer Add-ons prepared by one of our new editors at Gizmo's Freeware is quite extraordinary in its coverage and usefulness so do yourself a favor and check it out now.

PS If you are interested in the Best Free Internet Explorer add-ons then check out this guide:

http://www.techsupportalert.com/best-free-add-ins-for-internet-explorer.htm

11 Small Free Hotkey Utilities That Can Improve Your Productivity

Tue, 16 Jun 2009 20:17:59 +1000

I just love small special purpose utilities and this site has some gems. Not for everyone but special purpose utilities never are. However do check it out; you may find just what you have been looking for.

The Best List of Free Internet Explorer Add-ons I've Seen

Tue, 16 Jun 2009 19:37:24 +1000

This list prepared by one of our new editors at Gizmo's Freeware is quite extraordinary in its coverage and usefulness. If you use Internet Explorer do yourself a favor and check it out now. I doubt whether you will come away empty handed.

A Safe Way to Use Your Email Address on Forums & Websites

Tue, 16 Jun 2009 01:02:55 +1000

Hiding your email address from spammers by munging is no longer fully effective. This technique is simple, effective and completely free.

Get Xplorer2 for Half Price 0n June 17

Tue, 16 Jun 2009 01:02:30 +1000

The light version of xplorer2 is a freebie but if you like it you will probably consider upgrading to the $30 Pro version which adds additional features such as the ability to customize commands.

However on the 17th of June, 2009 you'll be to buy the Pro version for half price for one day only. Full details here.

Probably the Best Free Security List in the World

Fri, 12 Jun 2009 02:19:11 +1000

One of our editors, Antti Koponen, has personally compiled a huge list of free security software which he has modestly titled "Probably the Best Free Security List in the World"

Whether it is the "best" I cannot say but it is extraordinarily comprehensive and includes many products I didn't even know existed.

How to Make Your PC Easier on Your Eyes

Sun, 7 Jun 2009 07:09:33 +1000

Here's a little freebie that will reduce the strain on your eyes when using your PC at night by making the screen less blue and glary. It works - I'm using it myself.

Gizmo: "Bing is to Google what the Zune is to the iPod: too little, too late."

Mon, 1 Jun 2009 18:09:59 +1000

Microsoft's new Bing Search Engine is now online. Click the article title to read Gizmo's full take.

Don't Miss Out: Follow Gizmo on Twitter

Sun, 31 May 2009 20:25:00 +1000

My Twitter feed has been a great success - hearty thanks to all.

If you like this RSS feed then you will just love my tweets. You'll get the same kind of items but several times a day rather than two or three times a week. Click the title of this item to start following Gizmo at Twitter now.

A Free Animation Utility That can be Used by the Non-Artistic

Sun, 31 May 2009 20:17:52 +1000

When it comes to artistic skills I rate myself at the bottom of the barrel. Yet with this utility I was able to create a simple stick figure animation that actually looked quite professional. This program really is fun.

Full Version of Online Armor firewall 3.0 Free Today Only (May 26)

Tue, 26 May 2009 12:43:42 +1000

Here's your chance to get the paid version of this outstanding firewall with inbuilt HIPS. The free version is highly recommended by Gizmo's Freeware and the paid version is even better. But be quick.

Optimizing Vuze (formerly Azureus) for Speed

Mon, 25 May 2009 20:20:20 +1000

Here's a whole bunch of ways to accelerate your downloads. This guide was put together using information given by the developers of bittorrent programs in their forums, guides and FAQs. There are no secret tricks, just the time proven basics of proper set up.

Google Cheat Sheet

Mon, 25 May 2009 20:04:48 +1000

Google is now so big that it's nearly impossible to keep track of what's available in the way of features and services. This compiled list of what they offer is a real eye opener - I discovered stuff I didn't even know existed! Make sure you check out the list of fun Google services and tools.

Free Utility Makes Working With CSV Files Easy

Fri, 22 May 2009 07:12:24 +1000

Working with CSV and other files that use special characters as field delimiters can be a real pain but this free utility makes it a lot easier. Even better it's available as a portable version so you can just run it when you need it. A "must have" for your tech toolkit.

The Top 20 Science Fiction Films About Computers and Technology

Wed, 20 May 2009 22:56:46 +1000

I'm not easily impressed but I was blown away by "Rizar's" list of the best science fiction films that portray computers and related technology, and the ideas that give rise to them. I was so enthused I headed straight down to my local DVD store to hunt down two films I'd never heard of.

If you are into computers and sci-fi you really should check this out. And while visiting, please leave a comment about your own favorites in this genre.

Lots of Commercial Software for Free

Tue, 19 May 2009 17:46:09 +1000

Here are two sites that offer a huge collection of older commercial software and games that have been abandoned by their developers and now available for free.

Best Free Software for 64 bit Vista

Tue, 19 May 2009 18:36:27 +1000

OK you were forwarding looking and bought a 64 bit version of Vista but you have been disappointed with the lack of software you can run, right?

Fret no more; check out this ever growing list of free software that runs on Vista 64 bit compiled by our editor Rik Mayell

Best Free Paint Program

Fri, 15 May 2009 17:27:10 +1000

Early versions of Microsoft Paint gave paint programs a bad name but the latest products are quite stunning in their capabilities. The good news is our editor Jorge has located some superb free programs that will allow the inner artist in you to have full expression. So throw away your preconceptions and give this stuff a try.

Best Free Audio / Video Format Conversion Program

Fri, 15 May 2009 17:13:28 +1000

I just noticed that our editor Mick Barker has added two more free media format conversion programs to his recommended list. The first handles an amazing range of video and audio formats and will rip DVDs as well. The second is an impressive package that will convert just about anything for use on your iPod or iPhone.

Free Game Booster Maximizes Performance

Thu, 14 May 2009 17:57:52 +1000

Hey this actually does speed your games up. It works like this: You simply press "Switch to Gaming Mode!" and the program temporarily shuts own unneeded programs and services and cleans up your RAM so your PC is running at top speed. When you are finished playing games, click another button and everything is restored. This is a very impressive freebie.

OK, so you guys liked this the most

Fri, 8 May 2009 23:29:48 +1000

Normally the article on Gizmo's Freeware that receives the top rating by our users is "The Best Free Anti-virus Scanner" or something equally serious. But recently the top articles have all been free games.

Today the top is "Best Free Jigsaw Puzzle and Creator" closely followed by "Best Free Billiards and Pool Game." Check out the top rated list now by click this article's title; you are bound to find something you really want.

What to do when you Can't Find What You Want With Google

Fri, 8 May 2009 23:27:32 +1000

We all know Google is brilliant but what happens when even that brilliance is not good enough? Well there is no need to despair as they are many excellent specialized search alternatives that may well reveal the answer to your question. Better still, our roving editor Rhiannon, has found a web page that lists the best options on a single page.

You really should bookmark this one, I certainly did.

Free Email Backup Programs

Sun, 26 Apr 2009 23:15:04 +1000

Our email editor Philip Spohn has just discovered a site offering free individual backup programs for Windows Mail, Windows Live Mail, Outlook, Outlook Express, IncrediMail, Thunderbird, Becky, and Eudora. Philip described the site as a "mother lode" and having checked it out I can only but agree.

Follow Gizmo on Twitter

Fri, 24 Apr 2009 20:47:04 +1000

If you like our RSS feed you just love our twits. You'll get the same kind of items but several times a day rather than two or three times a week. Click the title of this item to start following Gizmo at Twitter now.

Get 9 Free Audiobook MP3s from Barnes and Noble

Fri, 24 Apr 2009 20:38:50 +1000

Barnes and Noble is offering nine audio books absolutely free. The books are in MP3 format, so they can be copied to whatever device or media you prefer. Among the more notable names: Kurt Vonnegut, Louis L'Amour, Junot Diaz, Alice Munro, and Jonathan Lethem.

Best Free Web Browser

Fri, 24 Apr 2009 02:43:54 +1000

There are hundreds of web browsers but only a select few make it into our recommended list. Guess what? We've just added a a new contender and it may well be a first choice for those who favor speed, simplicity and privacy.

Run Linux from Windows

Mon, 20 Apr 2009 17:11:43 +1000

Here's a nice idea: run Linux directly from Windows by using a special portable version of Linux. Just the thing for those who want to dabble with Linux while keeping Windows as their main working environment.

Best Free Software Update Monitor

Sun, 19 Apr 2009 16:59:00 +1000

We've just changed our top recommendation in our Software Update Monitor category. The new top contender is an impressive product so you should check it out.
Software update monitors alert you to the programs that need updating on your PC. Updating your programs to the latest version is an important security measure as old versions often have serious security flaws that could be exploited by an attacker to take control of your PC. Besides, if you are using a software product why not get the latest version with all the latest features.

Get Avira Security Suite Free for 6 Months

Wed, 15 Apr 2009 17:26:41 +1000

Avira, in collaboration with PC Advisor magazine, is offering a free six months license to its premium security suite. Avira is the maker of our top rated free anti-virus program, AntiVir. The suite adds a firewall, anti-phishing defense and a raft of additional security features not found in their anti-virus program.

Get Microsoft SharePoint Designer for Free

Tue, 7 Apr 2009 17:18:09 +1000

SharePoint Designer is Microsoft's WYSIWYG HTML editor and general web design program that replaced Microsoft FrontPage and is much more standards compliant. Microsoft used to sell this product for more than $200 but now you can get it for free.

26 Free, Gorgeous Aurora Wallpapers

Wed, 1 Apr 2009 17:46:56 +1100

She's done it again! Rhiannon, the editor of our Daily Tech Treats page, has found yet another website that our visitors just love.

This site has put together a wonderful collection of abstract aurora-style wallpapers in various resolutions. The popularity of this style of wallpaper is justly deserved as they are really attractive, don't obscure your icons and don't steal your attention. That's why I use one myself. Go grab one for your PC.

Free Utility Speeds Up Vista

Tue, 31 Mar 2009 14:49:02 +1100

Experienced users are well aware that you can improve the performance of Vista by shutting down non essential Windows services.

Shutting down services is not a task for the faint hearted but this free utility allows you to do it safely and without the pain. Just answer a few simple questions about what you do on your computer and this program will shut down the services you don't need.

After running this free program most Vista systems will run noticeably faster though the degree of improvement will depend on your setup. Definitely worth trying.

Best Free Intrusion Detection Program (HIPS)

Thu, 26 Mar 2009 00:27:51 +1100

HIPS programs provide a valuable additional layer of security for your PC. Many firewalls and other security programs now include HIPS functionality but if yours doesn't, then you might like to look at a free stand-alone HIPS program.

The editor of our HIPS category has just tested a wide range of stand-alone HIPS programs and come up with some definite recommendations. I'd never heard of his top pick but after checking it out, I'm impressed.

How to Stop Vista Objecting to Programs at Startup

Wed, 18 Mar 2009 23:59:39 +1100

Often, when you use a third party program such as "Everything" or "Secunia PSI," Vista's user account control' (UAC) will block the program when you boot because it can't get a response from you to elevate access privileges. This means you have to manually unblock the program every time you reboot. Here's a simple work-around that permanently get rids of the problem.

Free PC Game is Addictive

Sat, 14 Mar 2009 18:35:48 +1100

Our recently added PC games section is growing like crazy. There are now 11 games categories covering everything from classic PC games to computer chess. The latest addition covers the Best Computer Reversi games. If you haven't yet tried Reversi you should but be warned, it's highly addictive.

Copy and Paste from any Computer to Another

Thu, 12 Mar 2009 21:47:47 +1100

Most users have encountered the situation where they want to copy some text such as a product license key, from one computer to another. Often this means having to create a text file and then transferring the file to the other computer using a USB stick or CD. Here's a simple alternative that works.

Best Free Backup Program

Thu, 5 Mar 2009 15:58:28 +1100

OK I know you fully backup your computer every day but here's a tip for your friends who don't :>)

Our editor Paul Lawrence has just done a full update of the Best Free Backup Program section on our site and there have been many changes . Indeed our former"Top Pick" has been replaced by another program that is a gem.

200 Free Outstanding Online Classes

Tue, 3 Mar 2009 12:49:56 +1100

Topics cover a very wide range: everything from the natural sciences and computing through to to law and politics.

Examples include three-dimensional modeling and animation using the Open Source software Blender, learning and applying HTML, network security, and Adobe Flash. For the more adventurous there are courses on quantum mechanics, first year Chinese, modern poetry and more

Best Free Digital Image Editor

Sun, 1 Mar 2009 13:18:56 +1100

Looking for a better way to improve your digital photos or edit graphics images? Our editor Paul Lawrence has just completed a survey of over 30 free image editors and come up with list of recommended products for users at different levels.

I'd never heard of Paul's top recommendation but having tried it, I agree with him totally; it's an outstanding freebie that's powerful yet easy to use. This is the digital image editor many users have been looking for.

Free Software For Office 2007 From Microsoft

Mon, 23 Feb 2009 22:25:51 +1100

Office aficionados will find a veritable treasure trove of free software at this site.

Access, Excel, OneNote, Outlook, Power Point, Visio and Word are all catered for including some interesting listings like: Facebook and Flickr for Outlook, a Sudoku add-in for OneNote, and a Creative Commons Add-in that embeds a Creative Commons license into a Word, PowerPoint, or Excel document.

New Firefox Extension is Top Pick for Safe Surfing

Wed, 18 Feb 2009 14:15:05 +1100

What's the best way of avoiding infected websites when clicking through Google search listings? Some say use McAfee Site Advisor or maybe WOT. Others suggest Web Security Guard, Browser Defender, RGguard, Norton Safe Web, Compete or Google Safe Browsing.

Well this free Firefox extension uses all of these services and that makes it the best defense yet against accidentally visiting hostile websites when clicking through search engine results.

But that's not all. It also gives advice on family suitability, site ethics, site popularity and a lot more. This is a most impressive package.

Best Free Download Manager

Mon, 16 Feb 2009 17:04:56 +1100

Our freeware editor Jojo has been doing some heavy research into free download mangers and has come up with some brand new recommendations . I'd never heard of one his suggestions but after trying it, I'm now convinced.

Best Free Computer Chess and Go Programs

Thu, 12 Feb 2009 14:35:23 +1100

Why pay money for computer chess programs when you can get some sensationally good programs for free?

Our editor Robin Cooke has come up with three great freebies and for those who don't like chess he has found a terrific free program for playing Japanese Go. Personally I much prefer Go: it's really easy to learn and for normal players has a much stronger strategic element that chess. Try it, you'll love it.

Free Utility Remove Old & Dangerous Versions of Java

Mon, 9 Feb 2009 22:58:52 +1100

Sun Java has become a popular attack target for hackers and criminals as it can be found on almost every PC. Sun have responded by regularly releasing new versions that patch newly discovered vulnerabilities.

Unfortunately when you install a new version of Java the old one is not deleted and this is a security risk. This free utility will permanently remove all old and vulnerable versions of Java from your PC. Usage couldn't be simpler: just download it and run it.

Nine Free Screensavers That Actually Do Something Useful

Tue, 3 Feb 2009 17:56:09 +1100

Our roving editor Rhiannon has located nine free screensavers that are not only interesting, they also do useful things.

For example one helps you learn geography, one grabs photos from Flickr while another helps you learn from Wikipedia. And the other six are just as interesting.

Acronis True Image 10 for Free

Mon, 2 Feb 2009 02:32:52 +1100

Acronis True Image is a top rated drive imaging and backup program. It's currently at V11 but here's an offer where you get the previous version 10 for free. I used version 10 myself until late last year before I upgraded to V11. I can attest to the fact that it's a top product.

The Best Free Image Viewer: A New Contender

Thu, 29 Jan 2009 20:01:04 +1100

When it comes to free digital images viewers, PC users have long had the choice of three great products: IrfanView, XnView and FastStone Image Viewer. But now our editor Marc Darkin has come up with an impressive fourth option. Which is the best? Read Marc's review and make up your own mind.

A First Class Commercial Backup Program for Free

Mon, 26 Jan 2009 13:48:32 +1100

Neobyte Solutions, the developers of the excellent Titan Backup utility are offering Gizmo's readers the FULL commercial version of Titan Backup 1.5. This is a great deal; go grab it while you can.

10 Best Free Game Sites

Fri, 23 Jan 2009 03:41:32 +1100

Coming up with the best 10 free game sites sounds like a great way to start an argument. That prospect hasn't deterred our editor Jack Miller from stating his 10 personal favorites. Come and check them out. If you disagree with Jack then have your say.

Best Free Vista 64 bit Software

Wed, 21 Jan 2009 18:10:25 +1100

If you have made the move to Vista 64 (or are planning to) you will be aware of the difficulty finding good freeware that runs on that system .

Don't worry, our editor Rick Mayell has put together this terrific list of freeware consisting of straight 64 bits apps as well as 32 bit programs that run on 64 bit.

A Free Password Manager that's Just as Good as RoboForm

Wed, 21 Jan 2009 17:43:46 +1100

I never though I'd see it happen; a free password manager as good as RoboForm. But after using this product for a month I'm now convinced: this is is the best free password manager yet. More than that, it may be best password manager yet.

The Top 5 Video Streaming Websites

Fri, 16 Jan 2009 03:21:34 +1100

Online web streaming is one of the most popular Internet activities. Whether you want to watch video from across the world, news recaps, TV shows, tutorials, or funny videos, you're guaranteed to find something you like at one of these top five video streaming websites.

Free Program Creates Cards, Posters, Calendars and More

Fri, 16 Jan 2009 03:16:51 +1100

Sometimes you need a quick and easy program to make flyers, cards or brochures. You don't need Photoshop, you want something simple and fast. This freebie is perfect for the job.

Get Avira AntiVir Premium Free for 6 Months

Wed, 14 Jan 2009 00:07:36 +1100

Avira, makers of the top-rated AntiVir scanner, is currently running a promotion that gives you a generous six month licence key for the premium (paid) version of AntiVir. Full details here.

10 Amazing Google Search Tips

Wed, 14 Jan 2009 00:01:50 +1100

Well amazing perhaps not, but useful yes. Even experienced searches will find one or two new tricks here; I certainly did.

Download YouTube Videos Easily And Quickly

Fri, 9 Jan 2009 16:01:13 +1100

There are lots of ways to download YouTube videos onto your PC or portable device but this has got to be one of the easiest to use and remember. Even better, you get a choice of downloading the videos in FLV, MP3, or MPG formats. There is no software to install and it's totally free.

35 New Freeware Programs

Thu, 8 Jan 2009 22:25:40 +1100

This is to announce the birth of 35 brand new freeware programs. Conceived and delivered as a result of a programming contest these programs are very specialized but still worth a quick look. Who knows you may well find something you have long been looking for.

More interesting to most users is the impressive list of general freeware programs available from the same site, some of which are up there with the best in their class. Nothing trivial or specialized in this group; they are the real thing.

Best Free Setup Builder

Tue, 6 Jan 2009 16:39:53 +1100

Developing software is one thing, distributing it to users is another. The expensive commercial setup program InstallShield is widely used but there are also some very capable free products out there that will serve your needs as well. Here, we look at four free contenders but only one gets out Top Pick award.

Best Free CD / DVD Emulation Software

Tue, 6 Jan 2009 16:31:22 +1100

Disk emulators allow you to run CDs or DVDs from your hard drive without having the physical disk in your drive tray. As a result your games and other software will run faster plus there is less risk of accidental physical damage to the disks.

And if you use these freeware emulator suggestions by our editor Jojo, it won't cost you a cent.

Ultimate List of Free Windows Software from Microsoft

Sat, 3 Jan 2009 13:27:26 +1100

Did you know Microsoft has over 150 free Windows and Office Programs available for download? The problem is finding them as they are scattered across dozens of locations on the huge Microsoft site. This wonderfully useful list brings them together in one location and the result is a feast for freeware fans.

Premium Virtualization Security Program Free Until Jan 2

Wed, 24 Dec 2008 16:44:01 +1100

The latest set of Internet Explorer flaws highlights that you really should do your surfing in a sandboxed or virtualized environment so that if your PC does become infected, it can be removed with the click of a button.

If you are not yet sandboxing your PC here's your opportunity to get the full premium version of Returnil Virtual System for free. Normally $24.95 you can get it for zip from this special page if you apply before January 2, 2009.

Best Free Music Player and Organizer

Sat, 20 Dec 2008 17:24:36 +1100

General purpose media players are fine but if you mainly play audio files then you may be better off with a specialist music player program. There are some great freeware players available and this guide will help you select the best product for your needs.

Gizmo's Desert Island Utilities Now Updated

Wed, 17 Dec 2008 17:44:39 +1100

Gizmo's Desert Island Utilities is a list of the utilities Gizmo uses on his own PCs along with short explanations why he has selected each product.

He's just updated the list; several programs have been dropped, four new ones added and many items revised.

Hmm, read between the lines and you'll learn a lot from this list

A Freeware Program to Get Excited About

Tue, 16 Dec 2008 14:28:24 +1100

Our editor George is a pretty level headed guy so when he gets excited about a software product you know you are dealing with something special.

This one is a free media center. It's still in development but is very usable right now. Not everyone needs a media center but if you do then I think you'll find this product just as exciting as George did.

Easily Create a Designer Quality Website for Free

Wed, 10 Dec 2008 17:32:10 +1100

If you've been wanting a great web site with pizzazz,but have been held back because you don't know how to code html then you should try this free product discovered by our roving editor Rhiannon. As she says:

"Tools to build your own websites have been around for years. None of them interested me until now. Finally I've finally found an application that has quality design and ease of use. No coding needed, just drag and drop. High quality templates and being able to modify themes easily make this a top choice.''

Best Free Resource Meter

Wed, 10 Dec 2008 17:22:20 +1100

Most users have experienced sudden, unexpected slowdowns while working on their PC. With a good resource meter you can often quickly track down the cause.

Our editor George has looked at a wide range of free resource meters and come up with some definite recommendations. Read the full details in his review.

Outstanding Free Clipart

Sun, 7 Dec 2008 12:42:49 +1100

Its hard to find good quality clipart on the internet. Searching will get you loads of results, leaving you to check a list of sites numbering in the thousands (or more). Here's a site that shines in terms of quality and variety.

55 Free Stunning Desktop Wallpapers

Mon, 1 Dec 2008 16:40:41 +1100

Get 55 Free Desktop Wallpapers (with and without calendars) created by designers and artists worldwide. The list is the last in a year long monthly series submitted by artists and designers from all over the world. It features many Christmas themes but there are some gorgeous abstract designs as well.

Wallpapers are free for download and available in many sizes and resolutions, with or without calendars.

Excellent Free Album Art Finder

Mon, 1 Dec 2008 15:46:44 +1100

This Open Source program is designed to make life easier for anyone who wishes to find and update their album art for their music collection. It can access multiple album cover sources to give you the best chance of finding what you want.

The Ultimate Tweaker for Vista

Tue, 25 Nov 2008 00:32:18 +1100

Like to fine tune Vista's User Access Control? Want to run more than 4GB of memory? Like to remove the arrows on shortcut icons?

Do all this and more with this free utility. Yes, it's like a Vista version of the famous Windows XP utility, Tweak UI. What's more it's portable and a tiny 367KB download.

ZoneAlarm Pro Free for 24 Hours

Mon, 17 Nov 2008 14:14:39 +1100

Get a free 12 months subscription to the Pro version of this top rated firewall. Available for 24 hours only starting from 6.00 A.M. PDT, Tuesday the 18th of November.

Free Utility Converts Bookmarks between Browsers

Sat, 15 Nov 2008 16:09:56 +1100

This free utility lets you import and export bookmarks or favorites between the latest web browsers, including Google Chrome, Mozilla Firefox 3, Internet Explorer, Opera and Apple Safari. It can also organize bookmarks, convert bookmarks for use in bookmark managers, share bookmarks with others and more.

The Best Free File Search Utility Yet

Wed, 5 Nov 2008 18:22:34 +1100

This is so good I've just pinned it to the Start Menu on my personal laptop as I'll be using it daily.

This tiny, free program will instantly find a file or folder by name anywhere on any of your hard drives. What's more it does it without creating indexes that eat up your disk space and slow down your PC. And the way it works is just so fiendishly clever that you'll smile in admiration.

How to Get Top Rated Anti-Virus Program for Free

Thu, 30 Oct 2008 15:17:46 +1100

AntiVir has been at the top of our recommendations for the "Best Free Anti-Virus Program" for some time. It's a great product but we do miss the anti-spyware capability that's only available in the paid Premium version.

Not any longer; our editor Jonathan has found a way of getting the full Premium version free for 12 months. He's even found a way to get the full AntiVir Suite for free as well, not just the scanner.

Peachtree Pro Accounting for Free (After Rebate) Limited Time

Sun, 26 Oct 2008 02:54:43 +1100

Peachtree Pro Accounting 2009 retails for $130 but this vendor is offering a $130 rebate if purchased between 10/22 to 10/29/2008. There is also free shipping.

Free Utility Lets you Split Your Monitor into Sections

Wed, 22 Oct 2008 15:42:58 +1100

Ever tried writing in one windows while reading from a another? Not easy eh? Well, with this free utility that was discovered by our site editor Frank Ortmann, it's piece of cake.

You can split your monitor into two, three or four sections. You can maximize any window to a section or to the actual full screen, set which windows should run on top of the others and even set the transparency of the windows.

Sound useful? Believe me, it is.

Best Free PDF Tools

Mon, 20 Oct 2008 15:13:14 +1100

A PDF tool comes in handy when you need to merge, split or reorder pages of a PDF file, rotate or crop PDF pages, add a header, footer or watermark, or just encrypt and decrypt PDF documents.

Our editor Jojo Yee has been looking at the free PDF tools available and come up with some top recommendations.

Best Free MP3 Tag Editor

Sat, 18 Oct 2008 16:48:44 +1100

Looking for a good free MP3 tag editor? Well you are in luck as our talented new editor Jojo Lee has completed a review of what's available. You will be impressed with his top recommendation.

An Alternative to Vista UAC

Tue, 14 Oct 2008 13:36:40 +1100

Here's a product for Vista users that are unhappy with UAC but don't want to undermine their security by switching it off:

It's a free Beta at the moment,that promises to put a friendlier face on the business of administrative privileges. It's available in both 32 and 64bit versions.

Will it stay free when it is out of beta? Hard to say.

Classic Command and Conquer Game Now Freeware

Sun, 12 Oct 2008 12:42:01 +1100

The original Command and Conquer was one of the most popular real-time strategy games of all time, and a long series of sequels and spin offs have keep fans coming back for more. C and C Red Alert was one of these spin offs and was a big hit with fans. Now as Electronic Arts prepares to release Red Alert 3 this holiday season, they have released the original Red Alert as freeware.

If you are a fan of real-time strategy games and you are willing to put up with graphics that are over a decade old, I think you will find the game play of Red Alert just as addictive as ever.

New Free Digital Photo Stitching Program Beats the Rest

Mon, 6 Oct 2008 15:03:19 +1100

Stitching together several of your digital photos into a panorama can give wonderful results but some of the stitching software is not very user friendly.

Our editor Tony Bennett has just located the best free program yet for stitching together your digital photos and surprise, surprise, it comes from Microsoft. It's currently a free beta but Tony suspects it may end up as a commercial product and suggests you hop in and get it for free while you can.

A New Way to Sort and Search Your Digital Photos

Sat, 4 Oct 2008 17:36:37 +1100

One of our editors, Marc Darkin, has discovered a new free program developed by the University of Berlin that allows you to view , sort and search images by name, date, size or... COLOR!

It's especially useful when you have thousands of images stored and you can remember the "look" of a photo but have forgotten where it's archived. With this program you can select any number of folders, click on 'Sort by Color' and see the results presented in a variety of ways that make selecting the picture you want easy.

You can drag the presentation plane or sphere in any direction, with your pics forming a kind of a collage matched in ways you'd never before imagined. Words are inadequate in describing this; you really won't know how useful this approach is until you try it.

Free File Search Utility is the Best Yet

Thu, 2 Oct 2008 23:05:01 +1000

I've been looking for a program like this for years. It's a free search utility that will locate a file or folder by name located on any of your hard drives in less than a second.

"Ho-hum" you say, "there are several programs that do that."

Quite so, but this one does it without creating massive indexes. That saves your disk space and more importantly, doesn't slow down your PC by needing to maintain such indexes.

It's so good I've pinned it to my Start menu. I suspect you will too.

Learn a Language for Free

Wed, 1 Oct 2008 03:38:30 +1000

This free website bills itself as the social way to learn a language. Their system combines self paced lessons, a interactive community with tutors and the ability to talk to native speakers around the world.

Right now they support 11 languages, but it appears they are getting ready to add some.The program is still in beta (has been for a while) and as of now everything on the site is free. In the future they plan to be a pay site with some free.

If you have any interest in learning a new language and the opportunity to meet people from around the world, then you really should check this site out.

Find a song just by humming or whistling it

Mon, 29 Sep 2008 23:04:21 +1000

Are you looking for a song but only know some of the tune and the title simply escapes you? Then this website might just be for you. Just sing, hum, or whistle into your microphone and let the program find your music for you. It's not perfect but it sure impressed me with its ability to identify songs from my off-key singing.

Bored with Google? Then try this.

Fri, 26 Sep 2008 21:39:22 +1000

There is a new search Engine, by the name of MSE360.

Not only do you get the usual "Search Results", but also a Wiki and pictures as well. Add to this the sheer speed in which your results are returned, and I'm certain you will be impressed !

Free "The Matrix" Screen-savers

Thu, 25 Sep 2008 04:43:31 +1000

MVR 3D created some beautiful 3-dimensional screen savers a few years ago. Three of their screen savers were those related to the Matrix trilogy. the MVR website is down but you can still get these wonderful screen-savers for free

Best Free Screen Savers

Sat, 20 Sep 2008 01:26:13 +1000

Our editor George has just stumbled on an excellent set of free screen savers compiled by a popular magazine. He was impressed and I suspect you will be too.

Latest Version of Acronis True Image for only $9.99

Mon, 15 Sep 2008 10:13:51 +1000

Here's your chance to get the current version of the best drive imaging program on the market for the price of a few cups coffee.

Acronis is offering True Image Home Version 11 for $9.99 for one week only. As a bonus you also get Acronis Disk Director for free.This offer expires on the 19th of September 2008.

Another Way to Improve Your Digital Photos

Mon, 8 Sep 2008 12:03:20 +1000

Even amateurs photographers complain that sometimes their digital snapshots look grainy or covered in tiny confetti-like dots. That's digital noise and the good news is that this noise can greatly reduced by running your photos through noise reduction software.

You can pay hundreds of dollars for the software but most folks, me included, will be more than happy to use the excellent freeware noise filters discovered by our editor.

Access Music Online Without Using P2P or BitTorrent

Tue, 2 Sep 2008 04:34:45 +1000

Here's a perfectly legitimate way of finding online music using a special Google search.

The technique is fine but copyright is still copyright so use with appropriate discretion.

How to Send Self-destructing Email

Thu, 28 Aug 2008 22:50:52 +1000

This note will self-destruct in five seconds! No longer do the spies in movies get to be the only ones sending or receiving notes that self-destruct. Now, you can send notes that destroy themselves as soon as your recipient reads them. And it's free!

An Easy Way to Keep Your Software Up-to-date

Mon, 25 Aug 2008 16:18:44 +1000

Many users regularly update Windows but don't bother updating the other programs running on their PC. This practice is a real security risk as old versions of programs often contain security flaws that have been fixed in later versions and hackers can use these flaws to break into your PC.

Besides, why use old versions and miss out on the new features in the latest products.

There are several free programs that will scan your PC and tell you what software needs updating. Our editor surveyed the field and came up with three suggestions but only one gets the Gizmo's Top Pick Award

FREE: Download the Complete Back Issue Archive of Support Alert Premium Edition

Mon, 25 Aug 2008 05:38:59 +1000

Gizmo's Support Alert newsletter ceased publication in June 2008 but Gizmo has decided to make available to all our site visitors a downloadable archive of all issues of the newsletter including all the premium paid issues.

If you enjoyed the free edition you are going to love all the extra content in the paid edition. As one subscriber recently said "Hey Gizmo, finding all this extra stuff in the premium edition makes me feel like a kid in a candy store."

Best Free Audio / Video Format Conversion Program

Sat, 23 Aug 2008 00:23:46 +1000

Want to play a movie clip on your iPOD? Need to change an audio file from one format to another? If so, don't waste your money buying a conversion program as there are several free utilities that will do the job just as well.

Our top pick is a long term favorite of ours but there's a new contender that's just as good and easy to use.

Best Free Multiple Time Zone World Clock

Wed, 20 Aug 2008 15:37:10 +1000

Need to regularly know the time somewhere else in the world? If so check out our editors review of free world clocks.

He looked at dozens of stand-alone programs, web services and browser add-ins but in the end only one product gets the coveted "Gizmo's Best" award.

Just What the Heck is a Codec Anyway?

Mon, 18 Aug 2008 16:00:59 +1000

Everyone uses codecs but what do they actually do? Find the answer is this short explanatory article.

After reading this article I discovered one of my codecs was illegal. I suspect quite a few readers will find the same.

How to Keep Track of Your Time

Mon, 11 Aug 2008 19:00:57 +1000

Do you need to know how much time you are spending on different projects? Do you need good time records to bill clients or your employer.

If so you should really should consider using a computer based project time keeping utility.

The good news is there are some excellent freeware programs available. Our editor recommends five different products but only one gets our "Gizmo's Best" award as the top freebie in its class.

How to Remove Google Text Ads

Thu, 7 Aug 2008 04:07:26 +1000

It seems that almost every web page you view these days has Google AdSense texts ads spread across the top or down the side.

These ads have never bothered me. They are easy enough to ignore and besides, website owners are entitled to earn a living just like the rest of us.

However, lately some sites have started embedding the Google ads in the center of the page or worse still, right in the middle of a block of text. So I decided enough was enough and started looking for ways to block the ads.

It turns out that it's dead easy to stop them. In this article I show you how.

Get Full Version of Spyware Doctor for Free

Wed, 6 Aug 2008 08:26:15 +1000

Subscriber Troy Sims has just written to let me now about this deal mentioned on the Raymond CC Blog. This is for a full version of Spyware Doctor not the Google cut down version, it includes anti virus protection and the license is for 12 months. Here's the link direct to the original blog article:
http://www.raymond.cc/blog/archives/2008/08/02/free-1-year-latest-spyware-doctor-with-antivirus-6-and-privacy-guardian-41-license-key/

I've also posted this to our reviews of free anti-spyware products

Best Free BitTorrent Client

Mon, 18 Aug 2008 19:38:34 +1000

Looking for the best free BitTorrent program? If so you should read our editor's updated review. Not only only does he tell you the best products but he also throws in some very handy usage tips.

A Free Utility That Fixes Poor Digital Photos

Fri, 1 Aug 2008 19:00:03 +1000

Digital cameras may be the best thing since sliced bread, but almost all current cameras have a glaring weakness; they take poor photos in conditions where both brightly lit and dark areas feature in the same shot. Typically the dark areas come out black and/or the white areas get bleached

HDR (High Dynamic Range) photography is a technique that overcomes this problem. It works by combining several shots of the same scene taken using different exposure settings, into a single photo that is correctly exposed in both the light and dark areas. The results can be quite spectacular.

The good news is there are some great free software products that will do all the work for you. In this review our editors pick the best of the freebies.

How to Improve Your Security When Using a Public Terminal

Wed, 30 Jul 2008 19:30:51 +1000

Using a hotel computer, one in an internet cafe or airport is a risky business.

In this guide Gizmo shows you some practical steps you can take to make using a public terminal safer. There are no glib one line answers here but serious advice to address a serious problem.

A Free Program that Fixes Failed Installs

Mon, 28 Jul 2008 06:20:20 +1000

I've been waiting years to find a program like this.

It fixes and cleans up failed software installation and failed installs.

We've all experienced the siuation; you install a program, don't like it and try to uninstall it but something goes wrong.Worse still you can't find the uninstaller!

You sit there thinking what do I do now?

Geeks can fix the problem by editing the registry. Now there's no need as this program does the job for you. It's one of several excellent freebies recommended in our section on uninstallers.

Best Free Secure Erase Utility

Fri, 25 Jul 2008 21:51:36 +1000

Many users believe that when they delete a file from their PC containing confidential information, that it's gone forever.

Not so; in many cases it can easily be recovered. That means your confidential information may be visible to all.

In this article our editors suggest some free utilities that will delete your data permanently, so that it can never be recovered.

Also recommended is a nifty free utility that scrubs your PCs hard drives clean so you can sell or give away your PC comfortable in the knowledge that the next owner won't be able read any of your personal files.

The 10 Best Free Add-ins for Internet Explorer

Wed, 23 Jul 2008 18:28:55 +1000

Firefox users like to brag about all the free extensions for their favorite browser but there are some great free add-ins for Internet Explorer as well.

Our editors have come up with ten of the best freebie add-ins that collectively have the potential to transform your Internet Explorer browsing experience.

The Three Most Under-utilized Windows Keyboard Shortcuts

Sun, 20 Jul 2008 03:30:38 +1000

I was standing behind my wife the other day quietly watching her use her computer to write an email.

The more I watched the clearer it became just how much extra work she was creating for herself by not using Windows keyboard shortcuts. That prompted me to write a short guide.

These three shortcuts will save you so much its not funny. You might know one or two of these but the third is a power user's secret.

A Full $40 Commercial Version of A-squared Anti-Malware for Free

Thu, 17 Jul 2008 17:06:54 +1000

A2 is a top rated product that provides active signature and behavioral protection against trojans, spyware, rootkits and a broad range of other malware products.

It offers a strong additional layer of protection to anti-virus scanners, particularly those like AVG 7.5 that do not provide broad spectrum anti malware detection. A2 can also be used as an on-demand scanner. Additionally it has a good reputation as a malware removal tool so it's a handy addition to your PC toolkit.

Finally it's one of the few anti-malware products that will work with Windows 98.

This is the full commercial version not the free version and comes complete with a full 12 months license.

This offer expires July 31, 2008 so hop in and get this great product while you can

Best Free Anonymous Surfing Service

Wed, 16 Jul 2008 14:36:33 +1000

Sick of people snooping on what you do on the net? Then why not use a free anonymizing service that hides your identity, maintains your privacy and makes your internet activities virtually untraceable.

Setting this up is simpler than you think and it won't cost you a cent.

How to Unlock Extra Functions on Canon Compact Digital Cameras

Tue, 15 Jul 2008 03:28:17 +1000

Canon like most manufacturers employ product crippling on their firmware to create different product options. An enterprising software development company CHDK has hacked the firmware for a range of Canon compact cameras.

This article shows how to upgrade your Canon compact digital camera software to provide capabilities normally only found in expensive SLR models.

Best Free Digital Image Viewer

Sun, 13 Jul 2008 19:12:04 +1000

This is one of those software categories where the quantity and quality of free programs is at least equal to that of commercial products and our editor has come up with some outstanding finds.

If you are currently using Windows inbuilt image viewer to look at your digital photos and images you are going to be shocked by the improvement when you use our recommended freeware alternatives. They are faster, have way more features and offer superior image quality.

How to Back up Mozilla Firefox and Thunderbird

Fri, 11 Jul 2008 22:26:15 +1000

Firefox and Thunderbird Firefox users need to regularly back up to guard against the possibility that their profile gets corrupted or wiped after installing a new extension or a new version of Firefox.

If you use Thunderbird then it's even more important that you backup to ensure you don't accidentally lose your email correspondence and account settings.

In this article I show you how to backup using freeware utilities. It's easy, it's convenient and it's free. So no excuses, get you vital data backed up now.

The Best Free Way of Creating PDF Files

Thu, 10 Jul 2008 01:25:34 +1000

There are several excellent freeware programs available that allow you to easily create PDF files from within Microsoft Word, your web browser or indeed any program that has a "Print" option.

However our editor has come up with a great new freeware find that's easily the best in its class. I was so impressed with its features I immediately uninstalled my old PDF writer. You should consider doing the same.

Free Replacement for Windows Media Player

Sat, 5 Jul 2008 18:15:05 +1000

Sick of Window's bloated media player with all its security problems and digital rights management issues? Then check out these three free media players recommended by our editors. Each one is a gem.

Who Needs Nero? Top Free CD/DVD Burner Does the Job

Wed, 2 Jul 2008 11:07:02 +1000

Sure thing Nero is a great burner but why pay for all those fancy features when you can get a free CD/DVD burner that does everything you really need for nix.

Our editors looked at 15 free burners but in the end one product came out tops. The feature list is impressive:

* an intuitive interface
* the ability to author data discs
* create audio CDs playable in a regular CD player
* create bootable discs
* copy discs
* create and burn image files (e.g. ISO)

Click the title of this item for full details.

The Best Free Options for Viewing TV Online

Mon, 30 Jun 2008 20:58:52 +1000

Watching TV on your PC is hot. Our editors have come up with the best free viewers so you can see what you want when you want.

A Top Flight $40 Backup Program for Free

Fri, 27 Jun 2008 17:51:56 +1000

Here's a great freebie - a full commercial copy of Titan Backup, a secure, automated and easy-to-use backup solution for all your photos, music, emails, settings and important documents.

This is the full-featured version, the very same version you pay $40 for on the Titan Website.

There are no catches: no time limits, no inbuilt ads, no spyware, and no feature limitations. You don't even have to provide an email address!

This is an excellent commercial backup program and rates in the top group of products in its class. There is no freeware backup program that comes anywhere near this in quality or features. It gets my full recommendation. Click the item title for full download and registration details.

Free Utilities to Make your PC Run Faster

Tue, 24 Jun 2008 21:30:08 +1000

Give your PC a Springtime clean and tune-up using these nifty free programs uncovered by one of our Editors. If you haven't a had a tune-up recently you may be quietly surprised with the improvement in your PC's speed, responsiveness and reliability

How to Make Vista Run Faster

Sat, 21 Jun 2008 17:26:01 +1000

Sick of Vista's slothful performance? Turn the sloth into a leopard by following this simple step by step guide. Well not quite as fast as Apple's Leopard, just the normal four legged variety.

Ten Free Vista Tweaks

Tue, 17 Jun 2008 14:37:49 +1000

We all know Vista has been a disappointment but why suffer when you can make it work better

Our Vista editor George, has come up with ten different free utilities to make your Vista experience better.