I've recently started getting used to working on my first Windows based machine (been a Mac user all my life, but some luxuries aren't affordable for every machine I buy.)

This has likely been discussed, and I see someone has recently started a topic about DVD ripping software, but I'm curious what software I should be seeking out that people on X-S can't live without?

For instance, I've been a little put off by video files. On OSX, vlc would cover pretty much any compression and codec of video I could throw at it, but the one on Windows seems to need a bunch of codec downloads.

So what else? I've gotten Trillian for messaging, Firefox for browsing, Alcohol and Nero for burning, Adaware and Anti-Vire for security... I'm guessing there is a bunch that didn't even have a parallel on OSX.

DVD Shrink to back up DVD movies

MS Office stuff for papers and all that shit

Real Alternative for .rm vid files.

And I like winamp for mp3s

For media playing get either Winamp or Media Player Classic. If you need more "advanced" protection get PeerGuardian (especially if you download from "certain" sources). A good FTP app can never hurt so download SmartFTP, FlashFXP, or CuteFTP or similar (I would use FlashFXP due to the infinite free trial). For IRC get mIRC or a similar app. If you get sick of the Windows toolbars get a Windows skin changer like StyleXP or WindowsBlinds. Hope that helps

a fireall is a must.... zonealarm pro

Doom9 is a very complex and I wouldnt go so far as to say easy to use but it is one of the best dvd ripping programs. I beleive it is www.doom9.org

Doom9 is a website, not a program.....