Tired of codec problems? Try this innovative pack for audio and video files! Windows Essentials Codec Pack will enable you to play anything you download, from movies to music. Avoid the usual conflicts between different codec versions for the same file type and stay up to date with the most recent codecs, thanks to the program's update feature.

Windows 7 is a fast, stable operating system that already includes high quality software by default. But that doesn't mean you aren't allowed to enjoy the advantages of  third-party apps.

Common tasks such as downloading files, chatting with your friends, creating documents or editing photos require tools that you won't find built into Windows 7. Also, some of the tools you used before may not be compatible with Microsoft's new operating system. This is why we've put together this list of 20 top free apps that work with Windows 7, with which you'll be able to take full advantage of your brand new system.

Security comes first. There are many antivirus apps that work with Windows 7, but Microsoft Security Essentials is the one that best integrates with the system. Plus it also protects you from spyware!

Stability is another key issue. While we wait for the new Windows 7 compatible version of TuneUp Utilities, CCleaner can also do a great job cleaning, tweaking and optimizing your system.

Don't be ashamed: we all have deleted files by mistake at some point in our lives. Fortunately we can count on this great tool called Recuva to get them back - and it works like a breeze on Windows 7 as well.

Need a password manager to deal with all your usernames, passwords, secret numbers and personal codes? Keepass is a great choice, and is also perfectly embedded in Microsoft's new operating system.

Browsing the Web is the main activity for most computer users. Windows 7 already features the new Internet Explorer 8, but I'm sure most of you will only use it to download Firefox. Another excellent alternative is Opera.

Ok, so you've just reinstalled your Windows operating system. Your PC runs as smoothly as ever and now it's time to reinstall all those apps you use in your daily life. Each one of us has different favorite apps for different tasks and those are the ones that obviously get installed first. But everytime you reinstall from scratch there's a chance to discover new applications and who knows, maybe that new program you just tested earns a place in your favorites list.

Here's a list of the first ten applications everyone should install on their brand new - or freshly reinstalled - PC. At least, the ones I would install. Any other essentials we missed?

1. Firefox, the web browser
2. Picasa, the photo organizer
3. WinRAR, the file compressor
4. iTunes, the music manager
5. Nero, the CD & DVD recorder
6. OpenOffice, the open source suite
7. AVG, the antivirus
8. PhotoFiltre, the photo editor
9. Zoom Player, the video player
10. XP Codec Pack, all the codecs you need