The best free tools for your computer

8 Rename files quickly
If you are a keen digital photographer, you will know how frustrating it can be when you want to change all your photo file names to something more meaningful than DSC0001.JPG, for example. Using an attractive graphical interface, File Renamer Basic lets you quickly and easily change any up to 1,000 file names in one fell swoop.

9 Delete files safely
Deleting a file doesn’t necessarily mean it’s gone forever. With data recovery programs, it’s possible that these documents could be resurrected. Delete a file using File Shredder 2 will ensure it can never be recovered.

10 Manage hard disk space easily
When you run out of hard disk space, it’s tempting to buy a new one. Jdiskreport attempts to save you money by scanning the disk, giving you a graphical representation of which files are consuming the most space.

11 Back up files on the web
With 2GB of online storage free of charge, Mozyhome is perfect for keeping backups of your important files. It will regularly check for new and changed files to back up and all transfers are encrypted for privacy.

12 Keep an eye on PC resources
Windows Task Manager can be useful when forcing applications to close but it only gives you half the picture. Process Explorer is the perfect alternative to Task Manager and features detailed descriptions of each running process and a selection of useful graphs that show how your PC’s resources are being used.

13 Access files from anywhere
Microsoft’s Live Sync (formerly Foldershare) lets you synchronise files across multiple PCs to edit a document at home and then continue editing it when at work, for example. All you need is a free Windows Live ID or Hotmail email address.

14 Convert video and music formats
Not all media players can handle the same file formats, but with Zamzar you’ll be able to convert video, music and photos into all sorts of formats. It can even be used to grab video that’s streamed from a website and convert it into a file stored on your computer.