PC World — To help you get the most out of your laptop and stay secure while on the go, we've selected 31 applications and services that are particularly laptop-friendly.

These tools are useful for protecting your laptop, enhancing connectivity, managing files and media, and/or customizing your Windows laptop. And most of them are free. Let's start with security downloads.

Laptop Security

TrueCrypt (free): This open-source program lets you create encrypted volumes on your drive or encrypt the entire disk. It's an especially important program for laptop users: If your notebook ever gets lost or stolen, you can rest easier knowing that at least your sensitive data is protected.

Prey (free): Speaking of theft, the open-source Prey application may help you locate and recover a stolen laptop (or smartphone). With Prey, you can remotely turn on functions of the missing device that might help you locate it.

HTTPS Everywhere (free): This free extension for Firefox can help protect you from the Firesheep vulnerability--a significant threat to anyone who uses public Wi-Fi.

Hotspot Shield (free): An ad-supported program, Hotspot Shield claims to encrypt all of your data when you use a public, open hotspot. Pay attention as you install the app, however, to avoid installing unwanted toolbars at the same time.

Shield Exchange (free for 100MB; $12/year for 50GB; $20/year for 100GB; $50/year for 500GB): If you don't care for Hotspot Shield's ads or if you have problems with the services, try this service powered by OpenVPN. Shield Exchange encrypts your data when you use a Wi-Fi network, and it blocks malicious content.

LogMeIn Hamachi2 (free): If you'd rather set up your own VPN, you can use the free Hamachi application on your desktop and connect to it securely from your laptop wherever you have Internet access.

Comodo Firewall (free): When you access strange networks, it's a good idea to have a reliable firewall--like Comodo's--in place. And if you don't already have an antivirus program, you can opt for Comodo Internet Security, which combines a firewall and antivirus protection. Comodo offers two versions of stand-alone firewals and fireewall/antivirus combos: Comodo Firewall 32-bit and Comodo Firewall 64-bit; and Comodo Internet Security 32-bit and Comodo Internet Security 64-bit.

Eraser (free): This program securely deletes your files. It's a convenient utility to have on hand when you're discarding, recycling, or donating your laptop, or when you just want to make sure that your data on any PC is gone for good.

Connectivity

PdaNet (free; $24 for full version): PdaNet lets you use your Android smartphone or other smartphone as a modem (by tethering it) so you can get Internet access on your laptop.

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