48. Virtual PC 2007

While Windows 7 Professional users get Windows XP Mode built-in to resolve compatibility issues, those with Windows XP and Windows Vista can get similar functionality with the Microsoft Virtual PC 2007 program.
You need to provide your own legitimate copy of Windows to use it, but once it's set up you'll have access to all your old software again. Note that the add-on throws up a warning about not supporting Home editions of Windows, but it should still work.

49. Insomnia

This tiny free tool does one thing, and one thing only: when you open the program, Insomnia prevents Windows from going to sleep. If you're about to download a large file or burn a DVD and you don't trust your computer to stay awake during the process, this is really handy. Just launch Insomnia and the problem is automatically solved.

50. Windows Live Family Safety

Worried about what your children might be getting up to when they spend time online? Windows Live Family Safety enables you to monitor what they're looking at. If necessary, you can restrict access to the web, programs (including games) and even the computer itself, ensuring that they don't push their boundaries too far.
Settings are stored in your Windows Live ID, enabling you to configure the program on multiple PCs in the home. Plus, the latest 2011 version links in with Windows user accounts, making it even easier to run.

51. Joulemeter

JouleMeter
Get a decent estimate of your Windows 7 PC's power consumption by installing and running this tool – you can immediately gauge how much electricity your desktop or laptop is using by accessing the taskbar application. Alternatively, run the calibration tool to enable Joulemeter to test your set-up and produce a more accurate assessment.

52. SyncToy 2.1

This handy tool enables you to keep the contents of two folders – one of which can be a shared file over your network – synchronised. SyncTool means that multiple folder pairs can be created, and you can preview any changes to be made before agreeing to them.

53. Windows Easy Transfer

You've just bought a new computer with an upgraded version of Windows and are wondering how you'll be able to transfer your key files and settings to it from your current PC - you need Windows Easy Transfer. As long as you're running Windows Vista or Windows XP, just download Easy Transfer and let it do all the hard work for you.

54. Windows NT Backup Restore Utility For Windows 7

This storage tool, supplied with Windows XP, isn't compatible with later versions of Windows. If you backed up using the program and need access to your data in Windows 7, download this. After installation you'll find it under Start ➜ All Programs ➜ Accessories ➜ System Tools.

55. ScreenRecorder


ScreenRecorder is simple to use: launch the program, select whether to capture the whole screen or a specific open window or program, and start recording. To stop, click the big red button before saving the file in an efficient, compressed format.

56. Windows Memory Diagnostic

Strange behaviour – such as random crashes – could point to problems with, or even failure of, hardware. Find out if your PC's memory is the culprit with the help of this free testing tool. It's included on the Windows 7 and Windows Vista installation discs, but can also be downloaded from the link above and burned to a floppy disk or CD.
You'll need ISO Recorder if you're running Windows Vista or Windows XP. Memory Diagnostic will then test your RAM and let you know if it needs checking or replacing.

57. SkyDrive for Windows/Mac

Microsoft's cloud-based storage system SkyDrive has finally come of age with this app, which works in the same way as Dropbox to keep files backed up and synced across all your PCs and Macs. Like Dropbox you can have to keep everything stored in a single folder (SkyDrive), but you can place this where you like and use shortcuts and libraries to link in files from all over your hard drive. It's robust, doesn't produce file conflicts and comes with 7GB free storage, more than any other backup provider on the market. Upgrades are cheap too, from just £6 a year for an additional 20GB.

58. Montage

This clever free web service lets you create a visual album based on any topic you choose. Sign in through Facebook, Twitter or your Windows Live ID, and you can pull in RSS feeds, Twitter posts, YouTube videos, web links and more. Choose from a variety of different layouts, give your montage a name and the service will even get you started by pulling in a list of suggested content. Once done, you can keep coming back for the latest updates and even share your work of art with others.