Below is a list of Usenet tools and utilites for Windows, Mac and Linux operating systems. Categories include file tools, media utilities, backup (media and online), and antivirus protection. If you download from binary newsgroups antivirus protection is a must. Both Avast and AVG offer free versions. Online backup is also a good idea.
File Utilities
- WinRAR – Process RAR and ZIP files
- 7-Zip – File archiver – high compression
- NZB Completion Checker – Test completion of Usenet posts
- QuickPar – Protect and repair data files
- QuickSFV – SFV verification utility
- MacPAR deLuxe – Correct errors with PAR files
- JBinUp – Upload binaries to Usenet
- PowerPost – Upload binaries to Usenet
- SmartPar – Correct errors with PAR files
- FSRaid – PAR file utility
- File Helper – Open unknown files / repair errors
Media Tools
- DivX codec – Play DivX videos
- XviD codec – Play and create XviD videos
- VLC Media Player – Open source media player
- RealPlayer – Audio / video player
- Windows Media Player – Audio / video player
- Winamp – Audio / video player
Backup Utilities
- Nero – Rip, copy, burn, autobackup
- Roxio Creator – Backup and share projects
- Power2Go – Disc burning software
- Alcohol 120% – CD / DVD burning software
- ADrive – Online backup – 50 GB
- Windows SkyDrive – Online backup – 25 GB
Antivirus Programs
- Avast antivirus – Free antivirus + anti-spyware
- AVG Antivirus – Free antivirus + anti-spyware
- ESET Nod32 – Antivirus + anti-spyware + malware
- Kapersky Antivirus – Antivirus + anti-spyware
- Bitdefender – Antivirus + anti-spyware + firewall
- Webroot Antivirus – Antivirus + anti-spyware + firewall