While running Windows XP it is easy to think that we are missing out on a lot of cool, free open-source software and applications. After all, not all open-source applications are available for a Windows PC.

Microsoft however has provided us with over 150 free Windows & Office Programs for free download. Here are a few of my favorites:

• Tweak UI gives access
  to system settings not exposed in the default user interface,
  including mouse settings, Explorer settings, taskbar settings, and more.
• ISO Recorder Power Toy makes images of CDs & DVDs to create ISO images.
• MSN Search Toolbar with Windows Desktop Search, tabbed browsing, pop-up blocker and automatic form fill.
• Image Resizer resizes one or many image files with a right-click. (Great for quickly resizing images for e-mail or web)
  
• Media Encoder provides
  support for high-quality multichannel sound, high-definition video
  quality, new support for mixed-mode voice and music content, and more.
• Movie Maker create, edit, and share home movies easily with drag-and-drops. (My wife uses this for making simple videos)
  
• Producer 2003 for
  users of PowerPoint 2002 & 2003, includes improved audio and video
  quality, better synchronization, and presentation-sharing tools.

You can check out the entire list at Ultimate List of Free Windows Software from Microsoft.