In the area of software, I simply wanted to share my list of tips and tricks. In most of my network installations, I usually work with a network technician who will configure and program routers & switches. I concentrate on the building code requirements and techniques of the physical installation. Once complete, I will then ensure proper termination and certification.
Be sure to contact me so we can talk about your exact needs and requirements!
Short list of useful web sites, services, utilities, tips, and tricks.
Free anti-virus
AVG is still the leading free anti-virus and best reviewed, with upgrades available for small fees and subscriptions.
http://free.avg.com/us-en/free-antivirus-download
Snapping pictures of your pc screen
MWSnap is a great little utility that will allow you to take 'snap shots' of your screen. You can snap en entire screen menu or zoom into a smaller area using various options with the app. Very useful for getting pictures of error messages and screens that do not allow for pictures, i.e. satillite views in google maps. The utility will then allow you to save and print in various picture/graphical formats.
http://www.mirekw.com/winfreeware/mwsnap.html
Printing to a picture/graphical file
Paperless Printer, when installed, will look like a printer when you are ready to print a document from any app on your pc. When 'paperless printer' is selected, you will be asked what format, where to store the file, and all of the other necessary file attributes. I use this to print Word documents to .jpg files for easy posting and sharing.
http://www.rarefind.com/paperlessprinter/index.html
Printing to a PDF
Primo PDF is my print driver of choice when I need to get a document into the PDF file format. The resolution and quality is outstanding, and it will reduce the file size substantially when the document file needs to be emailed. PDF format, of course, is very hard to alter and change, so it is perfect for emailing sensitive documents.
Disk space
SizeExplorer Free is a great little tool that will "explore" a drive of your choice and display a 'pie chart', indicating where the big files are residing. Great little tool to quickly find where all of your disk space is going. It recently verified that my video editing was chewing up 80% of my pc disk drive. Purchased a USB tera-byte drive for video and all is well. $100 drive saved a $1000 upgrade.
http://www.sizeexplorer.com/sef.htm
Google stuff
Lots to say here, but just be aware of:
Free web site space @ google sites, like this web site.
You can then buy a domain and do a 'forward' to this space.
When you buy a domain, domain emails then become available from provider.
Free local business advertising @ google places
Free email, gmail, duh
and the list continues here http://www.google.com/intl/en/about/products/