As a virtual assistant I am always trying to get the biggest bang for my software buck. PC World released today it's "101 Undiscovered Freebies: The List". I thought I would give you my take as I have tried many of these "Best Bets" programs.

* Advanced SystemCare Free- I have not used this program. Instead I recommend Glary Utilities. Make sure you uncheck the install Ask toolbar.
* Avast Home Edition - this program is my college son's best bet. He has reviewed it on his blog "Pearls of Wisdom"
* Digsby - I reviewed this program earlier this month and gave it a mixed review.
* DVD Flick - I have not used - looks interesting though.
* Gmail Labs - I do not use Gmail so offer no opinion.
* Google Calendar Sync - Love this program. It allow me to update a client calendar through Outlook - saves me time so I don't have to double enter the calendar items.
* List.it - A list building program which I have not used. Build all of my list in OneNote.
* OpenOffice.org - If you don't want the investment in Microsoft Office then this is certainly a viable option. They also have a portable version which works well on a jump drive.
* PhotoPerfect Express - I would recommend Picasa 3.0 in place of this program.
* Qitera - Capturing web pages. I have no comment on this one.
* Shazam - This technically is just a 30-day trial.
* Songbird - Again John Olinda reviewed this in his blog "Pearls of Wisdom".
* Windows Live Sync - I use this to connect remotely to a client computer and have immediate access to their files. When I update my files it updates their files. Remote computer does have to remain on.
* Wubi Ubuntu Installer - I do not use Linux. My college son on the other had really enjoys playing with is features. If you enjoy tweaking operating systems have fun!

I always advise that you have a recent backup of your system before downloading and installing any software. You never know which program may wreak havoc with your system.