infrarecorder.sourceforge.net

When it comes to CD/DVD burning software, Nero is probably the most well known software but there are plenty of free Nero alternatives to choose from. InfraRecorder is a free alternative to Nero and other commercial burning applications that will burn both CDs and DVDs with enough features to make it a complete burning solution for almost everyone. You can make data discs (including multi-session burns), music CDs and video DVDs (including dual-layer burning if you’re drive supports it). It also supports rewritable discs and will burn image files easily (ISO and BIN/CUE).

The interface is simple and straightforward, allowing you to create and save projects and get disc information quickly. InfraRecorder runs on Windows only and is also available in a portable version, so you can always have a CD burning application handy. The download is around 3 MB in total and is also open-source (available from the official download page or it’s SourceForge project page).

http://free.grisoft.com/
AVG Anti-Virus is one of the top Anti-Virus programs out there. Their free version, for home and non-commercial use, is a great alternative to the paid anti-virus programs that are available. It comes with all the standard features of a good anti-virus system;

• Automatic Updates
• Real-time protection for active and downloaded files
• Scheduler for regular scans
• A virus ‘vault’ for handling infected files

It also uses very little system resources, unlike a lot of anti-virus programs that are bloated, running AVG will not slow you down at all. Once installed, AVG runs in the system tray, protecting you from the latest virus threats, without any extra hassle. You are notified when updates are installed for you and any results from completed system scans are displayed.

So if you’re looking for a new anti-virus program or need to replace your current one when the subscription runs out try AVG, the free version is available here.