Have you ever wanted to convert a file into a different format, but didn’t own the proper software? Zamzar is an online service that will convert files for free. It handles dozens of file conversions including documents, images, audio and video. Simply upload your file, choose your desired format, and enter your email address. When the conversion is complete, you will receive an email with a download link.

Even if you do not own an iPod, the free iTunes Jukebox is an excellent desktop tool for both Windows and Apple. It organizes and plays digital music, and it also rips (converts CDs to digital format) and burns (creates CDs from digital files.)

Although Picture and Fax Viewer is the default graphics viewing application for Windows XP, you can easily change this. Open Windows Explorer, and then right-click on any picture file. Select Open With, and then (even if your graphic program is listed) click on Choose Program. Now highlight your graphics program, and check the box titled “Always use the selected program to open this kind of file”. Repeat the process for each file extension (just as .gif or .jpg) you want to open this way.

Portable Document Format (PDF) is an increasingly popular standard for e-books (and hundreds of other uses) because of how well it preserves formatting across many platforms. The most robust tool for creating PDFs is Adobe Acrobat (which starts at $299.) For cheaper alternatives, try Adobe’s online convertor or pdfFactory. Both let you try before you buy.