Depending on whether a computer is for casual use or work, the favored gadgets for Windows 7 will vary with the user. Technology has advanced in such a way that these downloadable gadgets can give the user quick access to everything from CPU usage to favorite search engines on the Internet.
Starting with the casual user, no list of favorite gadgets would be complete without Twadget. It’s for exactly what it sounds like. It’s a Twitter gadget that puts a person’s account right on the desktop. For those who simply can’t live without their Twitter, this is a cool little tool. There’s also a Facebook and Twitter Explorer that puts both sites on the desktop. Simple Search Bar is also a nice little everyday gadget that can serve the home computer as much as the work computer. It places Google, Yahoo! and Live Search right on the desktop in simple search boxes. The user simply picks the one he or she wants to use, and types into the simple search box.
Movies buffs and music lovers will appreciate freeware downloads like Handbrake, Xvid or Virtual Dub which allow you to listen to, or view any music and movie no matter the format or operating system. These multimedia downloads make it easy to save a favorite movie or play list for later viewing either on a computer or in some cases, mobile devices.
For the person who likes to monitor their hardware there are three useful gadgets: CPU Meter, Network Meter and Drive Meter. Each does what the title says. The CPU meter monitors spikes in CPU usage and helps the user keep a real time eye on malware. It also monitors RAM usage. The network meter shows IP addresses and monitors downloads and uploads. The drive meter monitors all connected hard drives and their capacity.
Another useful gadget for helping maintain a well performing computer is the Uptime Gadget. It keeps track of how long a computer has been powered on. This is useful because a computer that has to be restarted often may be unstable or error-prone.
Finally AlertCon is a must have gadget because it tracks the state of security across the Internet, thus preparing users for possible malware threats or major security holes.