Sometimes the best things for your computer are free (FT)

It is often said that there is no such thing as a free lunch and, when it comes to software, this is often (sadly) true. Many "free" software programs have limited functionality, come with annoying adware or keep pestering users to upgrade to the full version. Nevertheless, if you are willing to put some time in, there are a few genuinely free programs that are as good as or even better than their commercial counterparts. So, as 2005 draws to a close, I decided to offer up a selection of my favourite free packages.