By Laura Milligan

StumbleUpon isn’t just another Web portal playing a bit part in the social media explosion. SU users love their online community for its blog hosting capabilities, site ranking system, and simple Web surfing options. Below is a list of 40+ StumbleUpon tools and add-ons to get you stumbling in cool new ways.

How-to Guides and Add-ons

Learn how to make the most of your SU account with these simple guides and add-ons.

1. Back up Your Blog: Follow this guide to back up your StumbleUpon blog so that you’ve always got a copy just in case.
2. Display SU Reviews: SU user Thlayli provides a link to the reviews page of each website for the benefit of those who don’t have an SU account.
3. Firefox Toolbar Add-on: This unofficial Firefox extension adds an extra StumbleUpon toolbar with features like a content filter, archives, advanced photoblog, navigation, and more.
4. SU2Bookmarks: This page shows readers how to save their favorite SU sites to a bookmarks.html file, which can then be stored on any Web browser.
5. Advanced PhotoBlog: Organize and store your blog’s images with this handy application. SU user Thlayli explains that Stumblers “can also specify link target, height, width, align, hspace, vspace or title.” No understanding of HTML coding necessary.
6. wySUwyg: The name looks complicated, but this Firefox extension will actually give you more freedom with your StumbleUpon account by letting you alter the format of any text area you view.
7. Sticky Helper: This simple tutorial explains to readers how to more easily edit posts with a one-click command.
8. Toolbarless StumbleUpon: Keep all of your bookmarklets in your browser’s bookmarks bar instead of bothering with yet another toolbar.
9. Copy URL Button: Sidestep StumbleUpon’s “tricky techniques” by adding a copy URL button to your profile to link up with other users and pages more freely.
10. Comprehensive Guide to StumbleUpon: Dosh Dosh’s guide to StumbleUpon offers great tips on how to “build massive traffic to your website” and increase loyal readership.

Tools

Check out these fun tools that will transform your SU experiences.

11. SU Music Player: This website is designed to help account holders add a music player onto their SU blog.
12. Random Group: Want to check up on your fellow Stumblers? Refresh this tool as many times as you like to view the details of different user groups.
13. StumbleCrumble: This Wordpress tool “will display the websites that you have recently stumbled upon,” letting all your readers know what kinds of pages you’ve been checking out.”
14. Auto Code Creator: Create your own unique text format that works every time you post a review or comment. The Auto Code Creator asks you to specify your layout only once so that you don’t have to type in the formatting code each time you open a text box.
15. Archive Links Creator: File away your SU blog’s old posts by creating links to categorized archives.
16. StumbleXchange: This website serves as another network for StumbleUpon users. Account holders can promote their personal Web pages by exchanging stumbles to increase their ranking and the number of hits they receive.
17. Textbook Assistant: This free software adds the textbook assistant tool, which lets Stumblers manage HTML features.
18. Quick Tag: The SU Quick tag boasts a more efficient way of adding popular tags and top personal tags to Stumble sites.
19. Blog Parser: Download the SU blog parser so that other users can reformat and view your blog anyway they like, and vice versa.
20. Best Friends: Sure you’ve got friends, but don’t you want best friends? This tool lets you differentiate your Stumble buddies by adding a Best Friends category to your list.

Applications and Extras

Try out these fun little extras to give your stumbles more oomph.

21. Facebook StumbleUpon: Connect your Facebook and SU profiles so that your most recent “thumbs up” stumbles can be displayed right on your Facebook profile page making it easier to share your Stumbles.
22. Thumbs Up!: Thumps Up! is an online fanlisting of StumbleUpon enthusiasts. Meet up with other users to share sites, swap Stumble stories and news, or pledge to Stumble each other’s pages.
23. Tag Blaster: This add-on provides directions for Internet Explorer users as well as Stumblers who prefer other browsers. Web developers will love the HTML options which allow for visible coding.
24. Compare StumbleUpon Likes: This application “highlights common likes on StumbleUpon About pages” so that finding new friends is easier than ever.
25. SUE: StumbleUpon Extreme (SUE) allows users to totally redesign their profile pages by integrating multimedia add-ons like YouTube videos, mp3 players, and more.
26. SU Blog Lite: By contrast, SU Blog Lite features a minimalist approach to SU profiles. Choose only the apps and information you want, and hide or delete the ones you don’t.
27. Highlight Replies Beta: Keep your eyes on this in-the-works app notifies you of new replies by color coding select threads.
28. Sort Groups by Alpha: Manage all of your different SU groups by allowing this button to sort them in alphabetical order.
29. Random Archive Bookmarklet: This user favorite “lets you generate a random archive page on all stumblers’ “Pages” pages.” Follow the link for a simple installation.
30. Likes Counter: Count StumbleUpon Likes with this tool which combines your likes with the Preferences and About pages.

Scripts

31. Official Buttons: This page provides all the official scripts for adding StumbleUpon buttons onto your blog or site.
32. Stumble This! for blogs: Encourage your readers to Stumble your articles for free by setting up this easy application.
33. Link to Videos: The StumbleUpon experts give you the tools for linking up with SU videos from your site.
34. Tag Toplist: This Mashable favorite “displays a top list of the most-used tags, and allows you to sort sort alphabetically or by tag count.”
35. Stumbler Comments: Add a private textbox to pages for drafting, editing, and filing away all your comments.
36. Colorize SU Thumbs: Tired of basic blue? Change your blog’s Stumble thumbs to green and red for a little more variety.
37. Hover Enlarge: Stop straining your eyes and use this script to enlarge microscopic thumbnails when you hover over them with your mouse.
38. Edit Fix: Have more control of your blog edits with the Edit Fix tool. Instead of letting StumbleUpon jerk you around from page to page while you edit, you can now choose to remain on the page you’re working on.
39. Preview StumbleUpon Posts: If feel more like browsing through posts and comments, try out this script. It allows you to you preview the forums and inbox.
40. StumbleUpon About Links: SU set many links to direct visitors to each user’s blog by default. If you’d rather tease new friends before letting them view your daily posts, change the links so that they connect with your profile instead.
41. Review Permalinks: SU user Thlayli explains that this tool “changes the dates on SU review pages to permalinks so you can link people to a specific review.” Follow the link for more details and opinions found on the SU forum.
42. Favorite Groups: Categorize your favorite pages by creating a group just for them. The Favorite Groups section appears on the Recent Conversations page, and you can add as many as you want.

Refer to this list whenever you feel like your Stumble skills are lacking. Fiddle around with scripts, follow the advice given in the how-to guides and tutorials, or add new features to spice up your Stumbles!

By Laura Milligan

Whether you’re on a mission to attract more readers to your posts or just want to connect with other bloggers and catch up on all the news and trends without having to turn on the TV, Digg is practically the center of the blogosphere. To keep yourself current on what’s new with Digg, check out this list of everything Digg related: tools, accessories, scripts, and more!

Official Digg Tools

These tools and apps were developed by the original Diggers. Try them out on your blog to spice up your site, or just play around with them at Digg.com.

1. Digg This: The Digg This button is the most basic of all Digg applications. Add it to the end of your posts so that readers will be automatically directed to the Digg site, where they can vote on your article.
2. Video Thumbnails: Integrate a video thumbnail on your site with this tool “for those [videos] directly hosting videos submitted to Digg.”
3. Digg Widgets: Use a Digg Widget to show Digg-related news and updates on your website. Customize your widget so that it complements your site’s themes and usability.
4. Digg-Google Search Accessory: Digg and Google have partnered up to provide you with this neat search engine application, which allows you to “add stuff to your search results.”
5. Google IG Module: If you’re an iGoogle user, add Digg to your homepage, along with other accessories like a translator, automatic weather forecast, or quotes of the day.
6. Stack: The newest Digg stories rain down in real time, allowing you to click on any title you find interesting. Visit the website or set up Stack as your computer’s screensaver.
7. Digg Search: Find stories by title, description, or Web address, whether you’re trying to find something to read or want to find the status on your recently added article.
8. Digg Cloud: Instead of viewing articles in the traditional stacked format, browse titles in this more engaging cloud-like format.
9. Digg Bigspy: Similar to Digg Rain, Bigspy displays new articles on your screen in real time, although in a more organized format.
10. Digg Spy Q: Check out this real-time view of new stories listed by title, number of diggs, and Digg users. You can choose to view as many or as few categories as you’d like to customize your viewing session.
11. Arc: This new tool requires Flash player. Stories are displayed in an arc, or sphere to give readers a more interesting viewpoint.
12. Swarm: Titles swarm around the screen like in an old school computer game. Use your mouse to magnify each “bee.” Yellow stories have the most diggs.

Mobile Tools

These Digg-related tools can be used on mobile devices, so that you can Digg wherever you go.

13. Pocket Digg: Creator David Grossman developed this program which “diggs out, and scraps off just the news you want, with out all the garbage,” perfect for small screens on handheld devices.
14. Digg Mobile: A no-frills format won’t clutter up the screen on your Palm Pilot or cell phone. Scroll through titles quickly and jump from page to page with ease.
15. DiggIRC: Choose a nickname and join other Diggers to chat about your favorite — or least favorite — stories.
16. Digg Mob: This Digg API Contest finalist lets users browse titles by category. Download the mobile version onto your phone and start accessing Digg even if you’re away from your computer.
17. Digg Anywhere: Digg Anywhere is another mobile-friendly Digg format that simplifies story displays but still allows you to read and post comments.

Online Applications

Use these tools on your blog as an addition to your Firefox browser, or fool around with them on your own time to develop a custom version of another application.

18. Digg Thumbs: This Firefox add-on supplements Digg title listings with Web site screenshots to differentiate each story.
19. Smart Digg Button: Don’t bother submitting a story to Digg if it’s already been sent in. But how can you tell? Firefox’s Smart Button notifies you by showing you how many Diggs the story has already earned.
20. Digg Alerts: If you’re tired of checking for good stories whenever you get online, consider trying out Digg Alerts, an app that automatically notifies you when “members submit
    stories you’re interested in.”
21. Original Signal: Digg titles are organized by the “Top Recent,” “Top 24 Hours” and “Top 7 Days” in each category. The format is similar to a newspaper’s website, but without all the ads and photos, making it easy to find what you’re looking for.
22. Digg Update: This app is compatible with both Mac and Windows operating systems. Every time a story you might be interested in is submitted or makes it to the front page, “a gorgeous window” pops up to notify you.
23. diggth Widget: This updated tool “is a widget set up for reading various Digg.com RSS feeds.” diggth lets you decide which news feeds and tool bars you want to view and which ones you want to hide, allowing for maximum usability.
24. Dugg Trends Beta Mirror: DuggMirror ensures fast load times for each story, no matter how popular it has become. Browse articles by using the archive calendar or selecting a category.
25. Groowe Search Toolbar: Add a toolbar to your Firefox browser with this handy add-on which “reconfigures when you select a different site and it includes many advanced features found in each engine or site.”
26. AstonishMe Digg Plugin: This easy-to-use application adds a Digg This button to the end of all your WordPress posts and shows the number of diggs your articles receives.
27. Digg IT: Install this plugin on your blog to make it irresistibly simple for your readers to submit your posts to Digg.
28. Digg Integrator: This Wordpress app allows bloggers to choose from 16 different plugin designs so that Digg buttons match existing themes.
29. Digg Click: Chances are, every single one of your blog’s posts probably aren’t Digg-worthy. This tool lets you add the Digg button only on posts that you think deserve a larger audience.
30. Digg Top: Digg Top is a great app for Windows users who like to check out videos on Digg.com. Preview videos to decide whether or not you want to watch the whole clip, or set up an automatic notification that will let you know when something you’re interested in pops up.
31. Digg Entourage: The user-driven Digg is all about community, so don’t you want to find out who’s been voting for your articles? Digg Entourage shows you who dugg your last 25 stories so that you can return the favor.
32. Diggitizer: According to this site, “Nobody diggs lame titles.” Use this tool to help you come up with a great title that will get you the diggs you deserve.
33. Dashboard Widgets: Want to check up on Digg without letting the site take over your entire screen? Use this clever little Widget to update you with the latest stories every 15 minutes. Search for titles, minimize the widget, and choose from 3 different themes to find a design that suits your tastes.
34. Jedi Digg: This nifty toolbar “displays the digg front page stories in rotation” and lets you click the digg button right on the toolbar.
35. Digg Ticker: Add the Digg Ticker to your website to share the latest headlines with all your visitors. Hopefully they’ll get the message and digg your posts too.
36. Rigglations: The rigglations widget connects users by displaying their relationships: mutual, friend/fan, etc. Organize your friends alphabetically by using the search/filter app.
37. Digg City: Navigate around a simulated city to find the 10 most popular headlines. This app was created by a Digg API Contest finalist.

Digg: Behind the Scenes

These websites and articles help Digg users maximize their applications and customize official tools to design their own versions. Learn about the history of Digg, news updates, and all kinds of behind the scenes information.

38. Graywolf’s SEO Blog: Blogger Michael Gray has lots of advice for implementing Digg scripts and widgets into your own blog. Check back often to find out what’s new.
39. Digg Blog: Visit Digg’s official blog to get the latest updates directly from the pros. Find out about new apps, contest information, and more.
40. Digg API: The Digg Application Programming Interface lets Digg enthusiasts connect with each other and with the Digg team to search for more information about posted stories and videos and to discuss ways to create new Digg applications.
41. Digg Labs: Visit this Web site periodically to discover what’s new in the Digg world. You’ll be among the first to learn about upcoming tools and applications.
42. Digg Defender: Find out how to keep your blog running quickly and smoothly even if your posts become top-rated Digg stories.
43. MoBlog Madness: Check out Alex Albrecht’s blog to access Digg support tips, news, and other Digg-related items.
44. How Digg Works: This basic tutorial is from the How Stuff Works Web site. Learn about the history of Digg, special features, behind the scenes information, controversy, and more.
45. Philoneist: This interview with Digg.com founder Kevin Rose explains the Digg explosion, from its original vision to its unprecedented popularity.
46. Tips from a Top 10 Digg user on how to get to the Frontpage: Follow these tips from blogger JohnTP to increase your diggs and ensure that your articles make it to Digg.com’s front page.
47. 11 Tips to Enhance Your Digg User Experience: This article, from the blog Techipedia, shares tips like how to “make friends and network”, “learn how to distinguish yourself”, and “don’t spam keywords”.
48. Digg Tips: The website Quick Online Tips publishes lots of articles for improving your Digg experience, like “What is Your Official Digg Policy?” and announcements for Digg’s API contest.
49. Want to Create a Site Like Digg With no Programming?: Read this how-to guide to design your own site modeled after Digg’s user-driven story sharing site.
50. Digg Logo Tutorial: Learn how to create the Digg logo using Adobe Illustrator.
51. Beginner’s Guide to Digg: Social media powerhouse Pronet Advertising publishes this comprehensive beginner’s guide to Digg, with a brief history, a detailed overview of Digg’s features and concepts, and its effect on the Web world.
52. How to Build a ‘Digg Culture’ on your Blog: Problogger.net offers advice on how to encourage your readers to “think Digg,” so that you’ll eventually create a Digg-like mini culture and consistently get voted onto the front page.
53. Dealing With the Digg Effect: Learn how to prepare your site for an onslaught of visitors after making it to Digg’s front page. Some of the tips include: communicate with your host to warn them, serve an HTML version of your page and redirect visitors to a Mirror version of your site.

Scripts

Use these codes to integrate Digg apps into your own website or redesign them
for a unique tool that’s all your own.

54. Digg Buttons and Badges: Digg shares its scripts for various buttons and badges so that you can incorporate them (or your own versions) in your blog.
55. Mirrors: Userscripts.org has supplies visitors with scripts to help you add mirrors on your blog.
56. Digg Story Button: Learn how to integrate the Digg story button onto your website using this official Digg script.
57. digg.licio.us: If you’re a fan of both Digg and del.icio.us, consider downloading this script that allows you to save stories on both sites without jumping back and forth.
58. Digg Custom Tabs: This script lets you “add custom topics to the header of digg next to the general topics.” Examples include adding a Google search link, as well as Firefox and Yahoo tabs.
59. Comment Enhancer: Blogger James Thewlis posts this Greasemonkey script that allows “easy access” to Digg features by opening up a selection box. Diggers can view images posted in comments boxes or submit a mirror link if the story has “been dugg to death.”
60. Replace Digg Search: Instead of counting on the Digg Search app to find your stories, replace it with a Google CSE with hierarchies to narrow down your search as much as possible.
61. Nested Comments:
    This app lets voters comment every time someone diggs your story. It also
    includes a reply box to keep the conversation going.
62. Digg Washer: This reader favorite is a “user-friendly app under the All News section of a Digg page that allows you to specify keywords or topics by which to hide articles.” Follow the link to access the code.

Extras

Here are a few more fun tools and apps that you can use to improve your Digg experience.

63. Live Digg Button Generator: This amazingly simple generator turns your story’s title and Digg URL into a Digg This! button on your site.
64. Diggaz With Attitude (DWA): According the the website, this Digg app is the most popular download on Tekdev.com. Try it out yourself to see the “latest Digg and Google News articles in your taskbar.”
65. Digg(less) RSS Feed: Link to your favorite Digg stories without actually visiting Digg.com. This app retrieves stories directly from the RSS feed, connecting you to the original website.
66. Opera Widgets: This fun little widget downloads Digg’s RSS feed.
67. Digg Submit Bookmarklet: Use the bookmarklet when submitting your story to Digg. It opens in a new window or tab so that you don’t lose the original story.
68. Digg Clone: These developers are on a mission to create their own Digg-based community. Keep up with their progress by visiting the site regularly.
69. Diggnation Digging Game: Xanga users must try out this funny game.
70. Digg Watch: Download Apollo to utilize this app designed by an API Contest finalist. The tool lets Diggers hover their mouse over stories and then grab and pull out items they find interesting.
71. mb3DEngine: Take Digging to the next level. Try out this app to find, read, and Digg stories in 3D.
72. Digg Tech Front: Digg’s top-rated technology stories are displayed in a front page format by category: Apple, Gadgets, Hardware, Linux, Design, Mods, and others.

The next you decide to read the latest stories at Digg.com, consider trying out these fun, easy-to-use apps on your own site, your mobile device, or in the Digg Lab.

By Laura Milligan

When shopping for a new computer, your mind is probably spinning with considerations: price, reliability, speed, software capabilities, security, and other specs. Perhaps the hardest part is choosing an operating system on which everything will run. To get a good idea of what capabilities Apple’s OSX Tiger/Leopard, Windows Vista, and Ubuntu Linux have to offer, check out our 15 point report card that compares the levels of protection you’ll get with each of them.

1. Personal Firewall
   • OSX Tiger: Grade: B+
     The Mac’s personal firewall security system denies absolutely every kind of traffic trying to get into your computer, unless of course you choose to explicitly allow it. No word, though, on what it does for outbound communications.
   • Windows Vista: Grade: C+
     While Windows boasts that its personal firewall protects your computer from both inbound and outbound communications, some experts beg to differ. They argue that while the capacity for outbound security protection is there, it isn’t effective.
   • Ubuntu: Grade: A-
     Firestarter is the firewall of choice for Ubuntu users. Most seem happy with the application. Other options include Lokkit, for new users, and Guarddog for advanced users. Guarddog offers sophisticated protection, so it’s almost totally hackproof.
2. Network Security
   • OSX Tiger: Grade: A
     Mac’s secure keychain lets you share information within your network without having to worry about others hacking into the system. It’s password protected, so your content is totally safe.
   • Windows Vista: Grade: C
     A case study about a successful hacking attempt on university computers is published on WindowSecurity.com. One of the main weaknesses with Windows? The study suggests that the network lacked proper intrusion detection and prevention Systems, which “are used to monitor servers and network segments for indications of unusual traffic patterns. These can automatically send alerts to system administrators, or even take action to automatically lock out sessions from the originating systems.”
   • Ubuntu: Grade: B+
     Ubuntu has a number of solutions for network security. These include Nagios, which monitors your network at all times, Wireshark, which analyzes your network protocols, EtherApe, tcpdump, tcptrace, and others.
3. Secured Default Configuration and Installation
   • OSX Tiger: Grade: A-
     When you turn your Mac on for the first time, every possible file and network sharing systems is automatically set to off. This lets you decide whether or not you want to put your computer out in the open.
   • Windows Vista: Grade: B-
     Administrator accounts are turned off when the computer is powered up for the very first time, boosting security levels; however, weaknesses still exist. This article, from TechRepublic.com, debunks two major myths about the administrator account: “Renaming this account prevents hackers from finding it” and “You can’t lock out the account after failed logon attempts.” Both so-called tricks are easily circumvented by hackers.
   • Ubuntu: Grade: A-
     Ubuntu has a notoriously secure operating system because it doesn’t have too many enemies. Read about these essential security installs to make sure you’re covered. The article boasts that “instead of spending hundreds of dollars on sophisticated firewalls, spyware blockers and intrusion detection and prevention systems, Ubuntu users simply have to install several free programs,” like PaX, Pro Police, and Dig Sig.
4. Auto Update
   • OSX Tiger: Grade: A
     If you’ve got a Mac, you won’t ever have to worry about whether or not your computer has the most up-to-date hardware and software protection. Their automatic updates come from an official source on a regular basis.
   • Windows Vista: Grade: B+
     Microsoft Update allows you to register for automatic Windows and Microsoft Office updates. Pop ups will let you decide whether or not you want to install each update when it’s due for a renewal.
   • Ubuntu: Grade: B
     Ubuntu users are never short on updates, but that doesn’t mean it’s easy to get them implemented. This wiki assures users that “Linux is one of the most secure and “well-updated” operating systems in the world. But with this cutting edge technology comes endless updates. Although this can be seen as a good thing, it can become overly cumbersome and annoying to end-users, simply trying to do their work, without tinkering with the underlying OS.”
5. Personal Settings
   • OSX Tiger: Grade: A+
     FireVault “automatically encrypts and decrypts the contents of your home directory,” making it virtually impossible for someone to break into your documents.
   • Windows Vista: Grade: C-
     Vista lacks in the personal security department. Besides creating a username and password to access your desktop, we can’t find any real obstacles to stealing access to your files.
   • Ubuntu: Grade: C+
     Unlike Mac, Ubuntu doesn’t have an ecryption system already installed on your computer; however, there are plenty of resources out there. You’ll need to check out the Ubuntu user forum for more advice on protecting your personal settings. For example, create a password that is at least 8 characters long and doesn’t include birthdays, anniversaries, or addresses.
6. Technical Support
   • OSX Tiger: Grade: A-
     The Apple Support page has excellent resources for getting support for your OS. Mac 101 introduces new users to Tiger, offering step-by-step instructions for connecting cameras, printers, and other accessories. Plus, it allows access to the Microsoft Cheat Sheet and shows users how to custom design their personal settings. The Apple Support site also has updates available for immediate download and a link to the Mac discussion forums.
   • Windows Vista: Grade: B+
     The Windows Vista Solution Center is well organized and offers support in many different areas. Browse topics like error messages, installing and upgrading, security and privacy, networking, configuring and maintaining, and hardware. Or, you can enlist the help of other Windows users in a special community support section if you need even more assistance.
   • Ubuntu: Grade: B+
     The Ubuntu Support page: allows users free access to their support team or community forum, but you have to pay to speak with professionals. Ubuntu still maintains a grassroots feel, so going directly to the forum is probably your best bet for finding helpful, informative support.
7. Spyware Solutions
   • OSX Tiger: Grade: B+
     Purchasing MacScan is your best bet for catching spyware, blacklisted cookies, and other harmful applications on a Mac. MacScan goes above and beyond the protection offered by traditional anti-virus programs: It “is designed specifically to detect and eradicate the threat to your Macintosh,” whether the threat comes from viruses or spyware.
   • Windows Vista: Grade: C
     This review of Windows Defender applauds the spyware blocker for being included free on Vista programs, but admits it’s nearly useless on its own. Free of charge, Defender is “included in the new Windows Vista operating system” and “can run manual and scheduled scans;” however, you’ll need to supplement another anti-spyware program for maximum benefits.
   • Ubuntu: Grade: A-
     Clever ways to avoid spyware are abundant on the Linux-based operating system’s forum. Advanced users can find solutions they can implement on their own without having to purchase expensive programs.
8. Hardware Performance
   • OSX Tiger: Grade: B
     It’s fairly easy to secure hardware on OSX. This article, found on About.com, gives tips for cleaning up your hard drive in order to make your computer run more effectively. It has suggestions like: remove deleted applications’ files from the Preferences, Extensions, and Control Panels folders; remove temporary files; and remove downloaded files.
   • Windows Vista: Grade: B-
     Windows Vista has a hardware assessment tool that will evaluate your computer’s ability to run the appropriate Windows program securely and effectively. According to Microsoft’s Technet, “the Windows Vista Hardware Assessment Solution Accelerator provides secure, agentless inventory for up to 25,000 computers. It collects and organizes system resource and device information, network wide and remotely, from a single networked computer.”
   • Ubuntu: Grade: B+
     When pitted against Windows Vista, it’s easy to see Ubuntu’s hardware strenghts from security to reliability. Ubuntu has much less trouble adapting to the 64-bit configuration and excells in many other areas as well.
9. Default Web Browsers
   • OSX Tiger: Grade: A-
     Mac’s default Web browser, Safari 3.0, claims to be “up to 2 times faster than Internet Explorer.” This review from MacWorld details the pros and cons of Safari 3.0. While Steve Jobs praises the incredible speed, the author can’t find much difference between Safari and other browsers; however, the author was impressed by the improvements to the find-on pages.
   • Windows Vista: Grade: C
     It’s no secret that many users loathe Internet Explorer, opting instead to download Mozilla Firefox or other solutions. Although IE has been updated with tabs and a few other improvements, it’s still flawed with security and ease of use problems.
   • Ubuntu: Grade: A
     Ubuntu’s default browser is Firefox, which is widely applauded for its tight security and useful add-ons.
10. Administrator Accounts
    • OSX Tiger: Grade: B+
      Apple discourages using the administrator account frequently, as it exposes your computer to potentially insecure networks and even hackers. They advise users to set up personal accounts for everyday use so they can “prevent [themselves] from accidentally breaking their systems,” according to Apple’s Developer Connection.
    • Windows Vista: Grade: C+
      The User Account Control allows Vista users to run administrative programs as a standard user, making actions more secure and easier to use in general. This article explains, “running with standard user rights can therefore reduce urgent help desk calls in corporate environments, mitigate the impact of malware, keep home computers running more smoothly, and protect sensitive data on shared computers.” Some argue, though, that this process makes Windows more vulnerable to outside attacks.
    • Ubuntu: Grade: B-
      Administrator passwords are generally not necessary, unless you’re going to create a non-administrator account on the same network. The initial user must enter his or her password, but doing this is still controversial. You can read more information about managing users here. The author illuminates, “inevitably, once you set up Ubuntu in your home or office, others will come to you begging to get access…In other words, you need a good way to give them access without giving them the keys to the system.” Adding new users with restricted accounts is incredibly easy and secure with Ubuntu.
11. Sharing Computer Accessories
    • OSX Tiger: Grade: A-
      Mac and Windows can now share printers and faxes, according to Apple.com: “You can create a queue for as many shared Windows (and Macintosh) printers as you like, and any application that can print on the Macintosh can print to the shared printer.” Read this overview to find out how it’s all possible. Just remember, though, opening up your network to share accessories can have an impact on security.
    • Windows Vista: Grade: A-
      See above for sharing with a Mac. You’ll also want to check out this article, which gives tips on how to share a printer from Windows.
    • Ubuntu: Grade: B+
      Like most Ubuntu components, it’s easy to figure out how to share accessories, thanks to resources like Peter’s Blog, which shares with readers how to configure a system for printer sharing and writing.
12. Bluetooth Capabilities
    • OSX Tiger: Grade: B
      Last year, a Bluetooth worm infected the Mac OS X, but the problem has been fixed. No other viruses have posed major problems.
    • Windows Vista: Grade: B-
      Some users have complained of not being able to use their headsets with a Vista computer, even though the general Bluetooth system is quite compatible.
    • Ubuntu: Grade: B
      Configuring your Linux-based computer with Bluetooth may seem frustrating at first, but it’s definitely possible. Check out this helpful guide for a complete run down on linking up your phone and computer.
13. Data Protection
    • OSX Tiger: Grade: B+
      Apple has a solution in BakBone Software, which created exlusively for “Apple’s Xserve, Xserve RAID and Xsan product lines.” The program has a maximum data protection system that’s reliable and easy to use.
    • Windows Vista: Grade: B
      Windows Vista has a third party data protection solution, too. The BitLocker is a tool that is used when content is under attack or in the process of being stolen. It “addresses the threats of data theft or exposure from lost, stolen, or inappropriately decommissioned personal computers by providing a closely integrated solution in Windows Vista.” Lock down your system by encrypting it with BitLocker.
    • Ubuntu: Grade: A-
      Don’t worry, Ubuntu has one, too.R1Soft is compatible with Linux-based systems like Ubuntu. This software continuously backs up data as soon as it is entered into the computer. Traditional “methods often only provide data protection on a daily or weekly basis, resulting in large losses of data in the event of a disaster. R1Soft’s CDP Server, however, monitors changes to the disk as they happen, thereby reducing backup windows to seconds or minutes.”
14. Application Compatibility
    • OSX Tiger: Grade: A-
      Apple has become more compatible with Windows. Read this article to find out exactly how it works.
    • Windows Vista: Grade: A
      The Program Compatibility Assistant notifies users when new compatibility updates are available. Additionally, “Microsoft is also releasing an Application Compatibility Toolkit 5.0 in alignment with the release of Windows Vista, allowing enterprises to immediately begin identifying application compatibility issues for their Windows Vista deployment in their current environment.” Consistent, continuous attention to application combatibility gives Vista a high score.
    • Ubuntu: Grade: A-
      Ubuntu’s Migration Assistant “will detect if you have a Windows partition on your system and offer to migrate your settings to Ubuntu.” Positive reviews are all over the Internet.
15. Permanent Deletion
    • OSX Tiger: Grade: A-
      The Tiger offers Secure Erase Trash to make sure you’re really destroying files. The applicatin “immediately overwrites the file with erroneous data, so that the file disappears and cannot be reconstructed.”
    • Windows Vista: Grade: C-
      The program Schredit “has a unique feature called Schred my Trashcan,” while Okoker Delete is “designed to help you permanently delete data from your PC by overwriting it several times with carefully selected patterns.” Double check the settings before you download, though. You’ll probably have to pay for it.
    • Ubuntu: Grade: B
      It’s possible to permanently delete items on Ubuntu, but like most other components of this OS, you’ll have to work for it.

Overall Review

• OSX Tiger: Overall Grade: A-
  Apple is continuously upgrading its security systems and design. Due out soon is the Leopard, which will probably include even more security features that are just as user friendly as the Tiger.
• Windows Vista: Overall Grade: B-
  Windows Vista has improved its security systems, but it’s still generally regarded as lacking in the user-friendliness department and tends to be a memory hog.
• Ubuntu: Overall Grade: B+
  When compared with giants OSX and Windows, Ubuntu is still a relatively unpopular OS, but it stands up to the competition well. Self-installation is regarded as one of the perks among Ubuntu techies, and the available technical support is easy to find and understand.

By Jessica Hupp

Whether you’re developing for the iPhone or just want to find more ways to play with your shiny new toy, there are loads of resources out there designed to help you out. From cool apps, to helpful tools, and easy to use guides, we’ve found 100 of the best. Read on to discover some of the most fun and useful developments for the iPhone.

Apps

Whether you want to play games, get organized, or find your way around town, these apps are some slick offerings.

1. Navizon Virtual GPS: If you’re directionally challenged, get this virtual positioning system for the iPhone.
2. Network Test: Network Test makes it easy to run a quick speed test on your iPhone’s network connection.
3. iSubwayMaps: Get NYC subway maps on your iPhone with this app.
4. TextEdit: For a basic iPhone word processor, check out TUAW’s TextEdit.
5. iPhoneGold: 100 Free iPhone Games: For serious iPhone gamers, check out this resource for all of the games you might want to play.
6. TipCalc: This app calculates your tip and total, and even offers the option to split the total between a specified number.
7. iPhone Colloquy: This IRC client is made for the iPhone.
8. Texterity: With Texterity, you can read magazines on the iPhone.
9. NFL Schedule: Get access to NFL schedules and standings on your iPhone with this app.
10. MobileTerminal: This terminal emulator makes using native applications on your iPhone possible.
11. Toodledo: This web-based to do list will help you use your iPhone to get organized and stay productive.
12. Telekinesis: Get access to your Mac via your iPhone using this software.
13. Tilt: This game utilizes the iPhone’s unique motion control.
14. Quote Sheet: An ideal tool for businesspeople on the go, Quote Sheet is a quotation and sales tool that you can use on the iPhone.
15. iPhoneChat: Chat on AIM using this instant messaging app for the iPhone.
16. Delicious Library: Scan the barcode of your books, movies, music, or video games, and this app will create a library of your media.
17. MakeiPhoneRingtone: With this app, you can drag and drop ringtones onto your iPhone.
18. SeeqPod: With SeeqPod, you can listen to millions of songs found online.
19. MyNumo: Practice for Vegas with this high quality blackjack casino game for the iPhone.
20. Unit Converter: Convert over 500 units of measure and currency on the fly with Unit Converter.
21. TubeTV: Mac users can use TubeTV to download YouTube videos and convert them to the iPhone’s video format.
22. iTube: If you’re on a Windows machine, you can download iTube to do the same thing as TubeTV.
23. iTetris: Play this fun favorite on the iPhone with iTetris.
24. TV Forecast: Get this personalized TV guide for the iPhone.
25. heysan!: Get access to AIM, MSN, and ICQ on your iPhone with this app.
26. Diamenty: If you like Bejeweled, you’ll love to play Diamenty, the iPhone implementation of the game.
27. AccuWeather: Get a 15-day weather forecast for any world location with this AccuWeather app for the iPhone.
28. OneTrip: Check out OneTrip for an easy to use shopping list that remembers items from one trip to the next.
29. This Day In History: Find out what historical happenings occured today with this app.
30. iPhoneAssassin: “Kill” other iPhone users in this game.
31. JiWire: This WiFi hotspot finder makes it easy to find a place to get online. You can search for a specific address or find popular locations.
32. Movies.app: Use Movies.app to find information on movie tickets, showtimes, ratings, and more. You’ll even be able to find links to buy tickets, view trailers and find theaters with Google Maps integration.
33. Solitaire: Get the iPhone version of this perennial game favorite here.
34. Pirate App: Turn any photo of a person into a pirate picture using this app.
35. iLounge: Find news, forums, apps, and more with iLounge Mobile.
36. iFlickr: Upload your iPhone photos directly to Flickr with this app.
37. iPhone Sudoku: Take in a Sudoku game on the road with this fun app.
38. do.Oh: This to do list is iPhone friendly.
39. iWeathr: Get quick access to doppler radar with iWeather’s connection to weather.com.
40. iSaber: The iSaber makes lightsaber noises and shows an image on the screen.
41. Gas.app: With this app, you can find the cheapest gas in your area while you’re on the go.
42. Earthcomber: With Earthcomber, you can find useful spots like restaurants, free WiFi, and ATMs. This app has GPS accuracy and integrates with Google Maps.

Tools

If you need a way to unlock or relock your iPhone, emulate the screen, or blog on the go, these tools are well worth checking out.

43. GUI Tool: Use this GUI tool to unlock your iPhone and use it with any SIM card.
44. Widgetop: Widgetop opens up access to lots of widgets, including some that serve up Wikipedia searches and RSS.
45. JuiceCaster: Use JuiceCaster to upload and share your iPhone media with others on MySpace, Blogger, and more.
46. iPhoneDrive: Use your iPhone as a storage device with this tool.
47. AddPhone: Add iPhone apps on the fly with this tool.
48. iActivator: Activate and deactivate your iPhone with this tool.
49. iPhoneWebDev on Google Groups: iPhone developers in search of assistance and knowledge should check out this forum for developers on Google Groups.
50. iPhoneWebDev FAQs: Find answers to your iPhone development questions on this site.
51. Dodgeball: With Dodgeball, you can broadcast the location of your iPhone, find friends, and map specific locations.
52. MockDock: This tool links to iPhone-ready apps.
53. MobileSyncBrowser: Back up your SMS text messages with this tool.
54. iPhone Developer’s Wiki: For iPhone development guidance, be sure to check out this knowledgebase.
55. TruPhone: Get VoIP on your iPhone using TruPhone’s service.
56. Appleopolis: Use Appleopolis to find, manage, and rate iPhone applications from your device.
57. TypePad for the iPhone: Blog on TypePad from your iPhone using this tool.
58. Jott: Use Jott to transcribe an email to yourself from your iPhone. You’ll be able to store, manage, and share these messages.
59. iUnlock: You can use your iPhone with any SIM card with this tool.
60. iPhoney: If you’re developing for the iPhone, see how your app works on it using the iPhoney tool.
61. Magic Tricks: Check out this resource for loads of magic tricks you can perform with your iPhone.
62. Pickle: With Pickle, you can instantly share photos and videos with others by sending your files to a special email address.
63. TestiPhone: See how the iPhone works by checking out this simulator.
64. TUAW’s Screenshot Utility: Check out this general purpose screenshot utility for the iPhone.
65. iPhoneWebDev Examples: If you’re an iPhone developer in need of examples, you’ll find what you need here.
66. SSH for the iPhone: Use this tool to SSH into a server on the go.
67. Popularity Dialer: Use the popularity Dialer to get a scheduled phone call that will conveniently interrupt you on a blind date or meeting with your boss. Or just to have another excuse to pull out your iPhone, of course!
68. AppTap: Use this tool to install, uninstall, and update applications from multiple sources on your iPhone.

Guides

Don’t try to reinvent the wheel–rely upon these extensive knowledgebases to do cool and useful things with the iPhone.

69. Remote Control Your Computer with Your iPhone: Check out this guide to find out how to turn your iPhone into a killer remote control.
70. iPhone development with PHP and XML: Follow this guide to develop with the iPhone using tools you’re probably already familiar with.
71. Simple business card iPhone/iPod stand: Follow the steps in this tutorial to create a cheap and easy stand for your iPhone.
72. Listen to iPhone music through a Bluetooth headset: This guide describes how you can listen to audio through a Bluetooth headset.
73. Run Widgets (kinda) on your iPhone: This tutorial shows you how to attempt to run Microsoft Dashboard widgets on the iPhone.
74. Put Your Content in My Pocket: In this guide, Craig Hockenberry of A List Apart runs down the process of bringing your content to the iPhone.
75. Optimizing Web Applications and Content for iPhone: Check out this official developer’s guide from Apple.
76. Unlocked iPhones: How to re-enable voicemail: If you’ve lost access to voicemail on your unlocked iPhone, check out this how-to for help.
77. McCallum’s Awesome iPhone Period-Typing Shortcut: Use this iPhone typing trick to save both time and frustration.
78. Quick guide to iPhone skinning: Changing the look of the home screen, keyboard and more: Get the lowdown on customizing the look of your iPhone in this how-to.
79. David Pogue’s Favorite iPhone Tricks: Discover tips and tricks that David Pogue loves, but Apple hasn’t included in the manual.
80. How to re-lock your unlocked iPhone to avoid bricking: Apple has warned iPhone users that a future software update could turn unlocked iPhones into inoperable gadgets, so if you want to be on the safe side, check out this tutorial on how to re-lock your device.
81. The unofficial iPhone SDK: Guide to writing native iPhone applications: Get the lowdown on developing native iPhone apps in this guide.
82. Hack the iPhone Notes App: Switch the font of your Notes app using this tutorial.
83. mp3 Ringtone: Use this simple hack to turn any iTunes mp3 file into a ringtone.
84. iPhone Development Standards: Check out this guide to standards in developing for the iPhone to ensure quality.
85. iPhone voice dialing (sort of) for $5 a month: Get the lowdown on getting access to voice dialing with this guide.
86. Installing the iPhone Developer Toolchain: A Simple How-To: Get some guidance on installing the iPhone developer toolchain here.
87. Guide to native applications for the iPhone: This guide gives the lowdown on getting native applications onto your iPhone.
88. 17 powerful bookmarklets for your iPhone: Read this post from LiveClever for 17 bookmarklets that give you quick access to text searches, Wikipedia, translation, and more.
89. Install third-party iPhone applications–directly from your iPhone: Get iPhone apps on your device without having to use your Mac.
90. iPhone 101: Uploading your Pictures to Flickr and Printing Sites: Find out how to upload your iPhone photos to popular sites here.
91. Disabling the iPhone’s EDGE/GPRS data access: If you need to temporarily cut off your data access, follow the steps in this guide.
92. 8 Ways to Get Ringtones Onto Your iPhone: This guide from Gizmodo runs down 8 options for getting iPhone ringtones.
93. iPhone: How to Delete Email: Get rid of old emails on your iPhone using this tutorial.
94. iPhone 101: Browser-based playlists: The Unoffocial Apple Weblog has created this guide to putting together a playlist that’s browser based, all on the fly.
95. Short and Sweet SSH Guide for the iPhone: Get walked through setting up SSH in this guide from Gizmodo.
96. Highrise for the iPhone: Check out this tutorial to find out how to integrate 37 Signals’ Highrise app with your iPhone.
97. Blog From Your Cell Phone: This tutorial runs down how you can create a blog and send posts to it, all from your cell phone.
98. iPhone Coding: Using the Accelerometer: The Unofficial Apple Weblog has put together this guide to using the iPhone’s Accelerometer.
99. iPhone camera as microscope: Check this out to find out how to turn your iPhone’s camera into a microscope.
100. How to sync the iPhone with two computers: Get your iTunes libraries from two computers synched up on one iPhone with this guide.

By Laura Milligan

Are you a whiz at developing your site or blog, but need a little help tweaking smaller details, like fonts? Not to worry, there are loads of resources out there to help. Check out these sites for 100 of the best legal sources that feature free fonts for online development.

Most Popular

These are just a handful of some of the most popular free font sites out there.

1. Free Font Library: Browse thousands of free fonts on this easy-to-use site.
2. Fontleech.com: This database provides a wealth of fonts for you to pick and choose from.
3. 1001 Free Fonts: Search through the categories list to find what you’re looking for.
4. Simply the Best Free Fonts: The fun fonts found here will brighten up your design project.
5. Free Fonts: This site contains more than 55,000 fonts! Start searching now.
6. Get Free Fonts: Download as many free fonts as you want on this site!
7. Jabroo: This site boasts over 20,000 free fonts.
8. FontFiles: Here, you can search by PC, Mac, or letter.
9. Free Renaissance Fonts: This is a great resource for finding Old World-style fonts.
10. Penguin Fonts: Penguin Fonts has all kinds of interesting, well-designed creations.
11. Quantum Enterprises: Download free fonts styled to look like real handwriting.
12. Font Menu: Select free downloads from categories like machine readable, Old English, handwriting, and more.
13. Chank.com: At Chank.com, you’ll find “handwriting fonts loaded with character.”
14. Microsoft.com: Download free fonts and catch up on the latest computer news for Microsoft users.
15. Fonts 500: This site allows you to download up to 500 fonts at once into a zip file.
16. Coolfonts Blog: Check out fonts like Aardvark cafe, Academy text, and Back to 1982.
17. Free Fonts Now: Search categories like formal, foreign look, scary, Western, and more on Free Fonts Now.
18. Lotsa Free Fonts: Find all kinds of uniquely designed fonts at this excellent site.
19. Fonts.com: While this site charges for most of its fonts, you get a free design when you sign up for their e-mail newsletter.
20. Fonts4.com: Fun fonts like “A.C.M.E. Secret Agent” can be found on this popular site.

Community-Powered Content

Forums and other interactive tools make searching on these sites even more fun.

21. Urban Fonts: Urban Fonts is home to more than 8,000 freeware fonts as well as a blog and active forums.
22. Abstract Fonts: Become a member and comment on fonts or what other users are saying.
23. Fontcentral.com: Vote on the best fonts, and then add them to your favorites list.
24. Linotype: This attractive site supports a “Font Lounge,” where you can read about featured designers.
25. Scrappin Fun Fonts: Draw out your creation, scan and e-mail it to the designers at this Web site, and voila! You’ve got yourself your very own custom designed font to use…for free!
26. 5 Star Shareware: Download sets of free fonts, all found on this community-based site.
27. Smashing Magazine Blog: Try out the free fonts of the month after reading other users’ comments and reviews.
28. The Free Country: This site connects programmers, Webmasters and designers. Follow the link to find free fonts just for you.
29. The FreeType Project: Download free fonts and check out the developer’s corner for more cool features.
30. Download.com: Read reviews of free fonts before you download them yourself.
31. ArsGeek: This free article shows you how to install TrueType fonts. Go to the forum to discuss the pros and cons of the suggestions, TrueType, or anything else you want to talk about.
32. Fontica: Fontica has a message board and allows users to submit their own fonts for community use.
33. Twin Fonts: This free online font community hosts a forum and lets you download and upload fonts.
34. Wanted Fonts: Preview and review choice fonts and dingbats here.

More Than Just Fonts

Find tutorials, software, and links to other great design resources on these sites.

35. The FontFeed: On The FontFeed, you’ll find new fonts, news, and typography tips.
36. Font Garden: This site has a font archive, handwriting tips, and more.
37. Web Page Publicity: On this site, you can download free fonts, read free tips on Web marketing, and much, much more.
38. The Free Site: Find free fonts, free wallpapers, free games, and more.
39. Font Freak: Font Freak has several great tools for finding fonts, font installation software, and zip programs.
40. Creamundo.com: Download your favorite fonts and store them in your own personal font library with Creamundo.
41. Beautiful Fonts: When you’re finished looking for fonts, use the sidebars to connect you to clipart, pictures, wallpapers, and greeting cards.
42. Best 100 Free: Find great fonts and more on this all-inclusive site.
43. Font River: This site has fun fonts and information on font converters and downloading.
44. Awesome Clipart for Educators: In addition to finding free fonts on this great site, you’ll also find clipart, icons, backgrounds, and more.
45. Larabie Fonts: Search free fonts and clipart on Larabie Fonts.
46. EKNP Free FontsLearn how to install fonts with this great tutorial from EKNP Free Fonts.
47. The Font Site: The Font Site has a special section for free fonts, but don’t miss the news articles about what’s going on in the design and Web worlds.
48. Mythical Ireland: Read news about archaeology and astronomy, and find some cool fonts inspired by mythical Ireland.
49. Bravenet: This resource offers tutorials, references, audio clips, and of course, free fonts.
50. Trade bit: This site has free fonts, a blog, software references, and more.
51. Ades Blog: Stumble across tons of cool web stuff here, including free fonts and technology news.

Submit Your Own

Try developing your own fonts, and then upload them to the following sites for others to use.

52. Dafont.com: Search the directory for great fonts, or submit your own to inspire someone else’s project.
53. SearchFreeFonts.com: Submit your personalized fonts to add to the 13,000-plus font database.
54. Identifont: Search by appearance, name, similarity and picture or send in your own designs.
55. The Dingbat Pages: Create dingbats and send them in to be included in the database.
56. KidsFonts: This site allows you to draw and design your own fonts. It’s geared towards kids to help them learn the alphabet.
57. Fonts 101: Add to the already extensive font library by creating your personal design.
58. Fontscape: Play around with your own creations, and then upload them onto this site.
59. Font God: Learn how to “type with your own handwriting” on this innovative site.
60. Greek Unicode Fonts: Get the best Greek fonts here for your specialty project.
61. Flash Kit: This excellent resource shows you how to submit your own fonts for the rest of the community to share.
62. Freebyte!: Freebyte! is “your guide to the Web.” Develop and submit your own fonts here.
63. The PC Man Web site: Find cool tools, games, and other resources on this site exclusively for PC users. Don’t miss the section on downloading and submitting fonts.
64. Free Logo Makers: Learn how to develop your own font and logo with Free Logo Makers.

General

These sites feature high quality free fonts.

65. Download Free Fonts: On this site, you’re given the choice to download each font in a format that’s compatible with either Windows or Mac programs.
66. Free Fonts X: This directory is the perfect “one-stop-shop” for starting your font search.
67. Acid Fonts: Browse categories like: Christmas, 3D, Mac, Retro, or Stencil.
68. Font Reactor: Preview each font before downloading. The most popular fonts are grafitti and gothic, so be sure to check them out.
69. Fontstock.net: Search by letter to find the perfect font for your project.
70. Showfont.net: Just click on a font to start downloading. Easy to search, easy to use!
71. Fonts 4 U: Look through the archive or check out the “Newest Fonts” page to see what’s just been added.
72. Unifonts: Unifonts sponsors 10 basic font designs for free.
73. TypeNow.net: Some of the best fonts on the web can be found on this site.
74. KatGyrl’s Fontain of Youth: Have fun looking through these superb font designs.
75. Astigmatic One Eye: This site offers lots of fabulous fonts for you to try out on your newest project.
76. Free Font Fiesta: Get inspired with the designs on Free Font Fiesta.
77. The Font Pool: Search by category, foundry or keyword at The Font Pool.
78. Dingbat Depot: This is the place to find tons of free dingbat fonts. Search categories like animals, cultural, funky, outer space, or romance.
79. FontScript.com: Discover more listings for script font downloads.
80. Free Ware Fonts: This extensive directory links you to free font sites all over the Internet.
81. ealoha.com: Download font packages that are compatible with PCs.
82. Divide by Zero: Free TrueType fonts are available on this great site.

Novelty Sites

From Disney to The Simpsons, these specific sites have fonts you probably never even thought of.

83. Billy Bear: Find cute kids’ fonts for PCs.
84. The Akbar Font: This designer has recreated and even adapted The Simpsons font, originally invented by Matt Groening.
85. Aircraft and Military Fonts: Give your design a little more oomph with these solid fonts.
86. Celtic Fonts: Explore many different kinds of Celtic fonts, all available on this site.
87. Wendy’s Wonderland Disney Fan Site!: Now you can download fonts for each of your favorite Disney characters: Aladdin, Mickey, Minnie, Flubber, and Pooh.
88. Persian Unicode Fonts: This site is an excellent resource for finding fonts in Arabic.
89. Greek Unicode Fonts: Get the best Greek fonts here for your specialty project.
90. Scrapvillage: Find creative scrapbooking fonts at Scrapvillage.com. Search by number or letter.
91. Font Diner: Vintage-inspired fonts are all the rage on this site. Follow the link to take you to the free fonts section.

More Resources

Check out this list for even more resources with free downloads.

92. The Tutorial Blog: This post on the Tutorial Blog lists several great fonts that you can use for free.
93. High Fonts: Some of the fonts on this Web site require you to pay a fee, so make sure you stay in the “Free” section if you can’t spare the cash.
94. Free Windows Fonts: These fonts are compatible with PCs.
95. FontArea: This site serves as another directory for terrific free font sites.
96. Hot Free Font: This site will connect you to thousands more free fonts across the Web.
97. Script Fonts at About.com: Download several great script fonts here.
98. bittbox: Follow the link to check out “7 Free Grungy Script Fonts You Shouldn’t Miss.”
99. Mike’s Sketch Pad: This site lists several great drawings for you to download.
100. Laurie McCanna’s Free Art Site: This site feature several great treasures. Look for fonts like “Saturday’s Girl” or “Missed Your Exit.”

By Laura Milligan

Contrary to what many Americans think, hackers aren’t all bad. While some create nefarious viruses that steal personal information, shut down corporate networks, or even hack into the high profile (and top secret) systems of NASA and the Dept. of Defense, some hone their hacking skills by figuring out ways to stop the “bad” hackers, or black hats, as they’re sometimes called. Others use their hacking knowledge to improve security on websites, operating systems, or even develop new software programs.

Using their powers for good rather than evil, these hackers also possess a slight element of danger, they are armed with the knowledge to take over the Internet after all, giving them just enough of that bad boy or bad girl edge to sweep you off your feet. Take a look at this list of the 10 famous hackers I’d like to date.

1. Joanna Rutkowska: This Polish computer research specialist is probably the most attractive hacker on my list. Rutkowska has been busy testing the security systems on Windows Vista for a while now, but when she successfully broke into the Vista security checks, she earned herself a spot on the Five Hackers who Put a Mark on 2006 list compiled by eWeek Magazine. Why is she on my list of most dateable hackers? She’s unbelievably smart, unbelievably beautiful, and undoubtedly one of Vista’s most important assets.
2. Tim Berners-Lee: You might have a hard time convincing Al Gore otherwise, but Tim Berners-Lee is the real father of the Internet. This super suave Brit has won several prestigious awards and has even been knighted by Queen Elizabeth. Once kicked out of the elite Oxford University for hacking mischief, Berners-Lee created the World Wide Web Consortium and is a senior consultant at MIT. I’m sorry, but a knight, an accent, and the inventor of the Internet? Tim Berners-Lee, will you marry me?
3. Sarah Palin: Sarah Palin is an unlikely candidate for this list, not because of her looks (she’s gorgeous and a former beauty queen), but because she’s actually the governor of Alaska. Her hacking credentials come from an ethics investigation into the shady behavior of Republican party boss Randy Ruedrich, during which she legally hacked into his computer in pursuit of evidence. This plucky Tina Fey look-alike has got it all: brains, beauty, and power.
4. Lance Spitzner: Self-confessed computer geek and former U.S. Army officer Lance Spitzner is perhaps most famous for creating the The Honeynet Project, a nonprofit research alliance that is “dedicated to improving the security of the Internet at no cost to the public,” according to the organization’s website. Spitzner’s heart of gold has earned him a top spot on my list. Check out this article from the Hack Report to learn more about his work with the Honeynet Project.
5. Tsutomu Shimomura: If you’ve always dreamed of dating a celebrity, why not cozy up to Tsutomu Shimomura, a serious celebrity in the hacker world. A research scientist and consultant, Tsutomu Shimomura helped the FBI track down, arrest, and convict hacker Kevin Mitnick, “the most wanted computer criminal in United States history,” according to the U.S. Department of Justice. After the high profile case ended, Shimomura wrote a book called Takedown, which was later adapted into a film version of the story.
6. Stephen Wozniak: While he may not be the best looking guy on the block, as the co-founder of Apple, Steve “the Woz” Wozniak is set for life. He will go down in history as being a member of the elite group of computer pioneers who made computer technology accessible enough for average Americans. Before he was famous, though, Wozniak was a master at hacking telephone lines and creating blue boxes, which he even used “to call the Pope while pretending to be Henry Kissinger,” according to ITSecurity.com. On his personal site, Woz.org, Wozniak declares that “Everyone is Welcome…to a free exchange of information, the way it should be.” Forever the optimist, this techie legend gives back to the community through his sponsorship of the Los Gatos School District. Because of his many good deeds, and the fact that he’s just plain rich as hell, “The Woz” makes my top 10 list.
7. Robert Tappan Morris: Morris is the bad boy of the group. While a student at Cornell, Morris created the first ever Internet worm, allegedly “to gauge the size of the Internet.” Unfortunately for him, the worm was traced back to his computer, and the Tech Republic reports that he was sentenced to “three years’ probation, 400 hours of community service, and a $10,050 fine.” Now, Morris seems to have found his way back from the dark side, and he is a well-respected professor at MIT. But wouldn’t you just love to pick his brain about his rebellious hacking days over a drink or two?
8. Linus Torvalds: As the inventor of Linux, Linus Torvalds is by default a hacker’s hero. Linux is the OS of choice for computer hackers and legit geeks worldwide, making it essentially hackproof itself. Originally from Finland, Torvalds now lives in California, er, with his wife and family. If only we could reverse time and get to know the college boy genius that revolutionized the computer industry.
9. Valerie Henson: For all you guys out there, Valerie Henson is one Linux hottie you’ll want to keep around. By day, Henson is a freelance Linux consultant, but she’s also the writer of the LinuxChix Kernel Hacking Lessons, which teach Linux users how to write their own codes and configure their own kernels. And, oh yeah, she’s ridiculously pretty.
10. Joe Desch: Don’t worry, I know that Joe Desch is deceased, but again, if we could turn back time, you couldn’t find a more noble hacker to take you out to dinner. Joe Desch worked for General Motors Radio, Telecom Laboratories and the National Cash Register Company, but he is most well-known for helping to break Nazi naval code during World War II, based on his invention of a machine that could apply “electronic counting to calculating mechanisms.” He worked with the U.S. Navy to develop the American version of the British cryptology machine, or bombe, and later assisted with cracking Japanese codes, which “in the Pacific” were “used to implement large scale defeats of the Japanese.”

While we may never get the chance to meet, let alone date, any of these famous hackers one thing is certain: hackers have a new image. Beauty queens, corporate leaders, former Army officers, and even knights of the British empire have all played the hacking game. It’s not so bad, is it?

By Christina Laun

It’s easy to get caught up in the sea of development, design and hosting tools you use on a regular basis, but you can’t forget about the little programs that you are or should be using to make your life a little easier. Set aside some time to make sure you’ve got the right tools for the most basic of jobs (keeping you organized and productive) with these 12 tools.

1. WorkRave: Getting caught up in your work isn’t always a bad thing, but it is if it starts to affect the health and well being of your body. Working on a computer all day can take a toll on your eyes and wrists so force yourself to take mini-breaks with WorkRave. The program will remind you after a set period of time that you need to give yourself a rest and you can use to time to grab coffee or work on a non-computer related task.
2. Plaxo: Ever misplace contact information or forget to sync up your laptop’s contacts with your desktop’s? Try storing your important client and business information with a program like Plaxo instead. It will automatically update any contact information you put in your email client and store it for you on Plaxo’s servers, meaning you can get to it from any computer or just keep it nice and neat.
3. Blinklist: A real computer geek is rarely satisfied with only one computer, but syncing up multiple machines is often a pain. Make it easy on yourself with Blinklist. Share your bookmarks between multiple computers or use the program to create notes you or clients can access from anywhere.
4. Ta-Da List: Staying organized and focused on your work can sometimes be a challenge even for the most diligent of workers. A program like Ta-Da List can help you out by creating an easy and painless way to keep all of your tasks in order and access them from any computer you use. Whether you use it to build a grocery list or keep track of the status of your latest project, this is a very valuable productivity tool.
5. Firefox: Chances are, you’re already using Firefox or another IE alternative like Opera, but if you’re not, now’s a great time to consider making the switch. Secure, packed with great features, and amazingly customizable, Firefox is the browser of choice among Internet professionals and the hoi polloi as well. Plus, there are tons of great plugins and extensions that can make working and finding entertainment on your computer easier and faster.
6. Inspector File Recovery: It happens to even the best of us. You’re working away steadily and forget to save a file or accidentally delete something that you later realize was pretty important. Protect your work from mishaps like this by using Inspector File Recovery to resurrect your data from the depths of your recycle bin. This program will bring back your files even when the headers are missing and your boot sector has been damaged, saving you time and possibly a heart attack over lost data.
7. Skype: Long distance bills can get expensive, especially if you have clients or family overseas. Help slash prices with VoIP provider Skype. Skype offers many free calling options as well as extremely discounted international rates when you use the program to make calls. The program also comes with icons you can put on your webpages to make it easy for customers to contact you through your e-commerce site instead of through email. Best of all, you can bring it with you when you’re on vacation or traveling for work, so you’ll never lose your connectivity.
8. Filezilla: FTP is an incredibly useful tool whether you’re uploading websites or just sharing files with a friend. With a free FTP program like Filezilla, you don’t need to pay for an expensive FTP solution. Enjoy standard features like drag and drop, transfer resume and a wide variety of supported transfer protocols, all without breaking out your credit card.
9. MediaMax: Computer storage space isn’t unlimited, and if you’re churning out lots of work you’re going to eat up your hard drive space before you know it. You can give yourself a little bit of a storage boost with a free web-based app called MediaMax. This program allows users to store up to 25 GB and access files from any computer securely and privately. So whether you’re storing your collection of Michael Jackson CDs or important work files, you won’t be using up your computers’ space and you’ll have the ability to get to your stuff from anywhere.
10. EditPad Pro: Chances are pretty good that if you’ve done a substantial amount of programming or web design in your life that you’ve use Notepad to do some of your work. After all, it’s simple and gets the job done, right? Well why not kick it up a notch with a program lie EditPad Pro. It has the same functions as Notepad, but offers a few great additions like the ability to switch between files using tabs and a “previous editing position” tool so you never lose your place.
11. CCleaner: Being on your computer all the time can lead to the accumulation of a lot of junk that can slow you down. Keep your computer clean and in good working order with a program like CCleaner. It will help clean out your registry and get rid of useless space-hogging programs taking up residence on your hard drive to help make your computer a lean mean development machine.
12. KeePass: You probably have a multitude passwords to remember and sometimes no matter how clever you thought you were being when you created the password, you just can’t remember it. Make brain farts like this a thing of the past and save yourself time with KeePass. This program will keep track of all your passwords for you, making your life just a little bit easier every single day.

By Jessica Hupp

Web designers often concern themselves with optimizing sites for spiders from Google, Yahoo, and other search engines, but pay little attention to creating sites that real people can use. This problem has sparked a movement towards user-centered web design, a topic that covers accessibility, web standards, and interfacing. Check out these blogs for the latest and greatest in this people-centric field of design.

The Top 10

These blogs are the best of the best when it comes to user-centered discussions.

1. Signal vs. Noise: Written by 37signals, the makers of simple, elegant tools like Ta-da List and Basecamp, this blog discusses up-to-the-minute information on design, experience, simplicity, and more.
2. 456 Berea Street: Visit this very popular blog for insight into the world of web standards, accessibility, and usability.
3. ./with Imagination: As a leader in user interface engineering, Dustin Diaz has a lot of knowledge to offer in this arena.
4. Functioning Form: Luke Wroblewski’s Functioning Form offers extensive information on user interface design.
5. This is Broken: This is Broken features a round-up and commentary on user experiences, good and bad.
6. Adaptive Path: Adaptive Path strives to create experiences that “improve people’s lives,” and they love to share what they’ve learned with others.
7. Boxes and Arrows: The subject matter focuses on interaction design and other closely related topics, but this blog sets an example because it’s a peer-written journal composed of mainly user-generated content.
8. A List Apart: A List Apart’s insightful articles cover important issues in design and development with an emphasis on web standards.
9. UX Matters: This web magazine delivers top-notch content about strategies for improving user experience.
10. UX Magazine: For this magazine, “user experience is everything.” Check it out for a round-up of all that’s important to enhancing user experience.

Accessibility

When designing your site, you can’t forget about people with disabilities. Find out more about how you can make your web development open to everyone by reading these blogs.

11. 200ok: This blog by Ben Buchanan discusses web development, paying special attention to accessibility and web standards.
12. Accessify: Check out Ian Lloyd’s Accessify to learn how you can make what you develop more accessible.
13. Curb Cut: Visit the Curb Cut blog for loads of resources and discussions about accessibility.
14. Unintentionally Blank: Phil Nash writes about web standards, particularly focusing on accessibility and usability.
15. Clagnut: Check out Clagnut for Richard Rutter’s insight on design and accessibility.
16. MCU: Jim Byrne, author of 60 Hot to touch Accessible Web Design tips, offers insight into the world of accessibility, disabilities, and web design.
17. Anitra Pavka: This blog provides news, commentary, and articles on topics concerning web accessibility.
18. Rosie Sherry: Rosie Sherry discusses testing and tools that revolve around accessibility and web standards.
19. Wise Guys Only: Tim Roberts discusses the tricky combination of Ajax and accessibility.
20. Accessities: Accessities proves that websites can be both accessible and attractive.
21. Segala: Segala evangelizes accessibility and trust in web design.

Human Computer Interaction

Web pages don’t just load themselves — people find them and open them. These blogs discuss the intersection of humans and computers in design.

22. Interaction Design: Visit Interaction Design for an introduction to human computer interaction, interaction design, information architecture, and more.
23. Population of One: Sylvie Noel discusses her work on human computer interactions.
24. Human-Computer Interaction Design: Read David Roedl’s blog for information on human-computer interaction with a focus on topics like sustainable interaction design, experience-focused HCI research, and more.
25. Ergonomenon: Ergonomenon discusses the intersection of ergonomics and human-computer interaction.
26. Information Architects: Information Architects takes a look at interfaces that people like to use.
27. User Designer: Mike Bennett writes about human-computer interaction and interaction design, focusing on research and resources for user implementation.