While this site focuses on *NIX and platform independent Open Source software solutions, there are several freeware and Open Source solutions for those using Windows operating systems. In addition to the classic sites like tucows.com and shareware.com, I recently found Carol’s Vault at http://carolsvault.com. The goal of the blog is to gather all the useful Windows tips and tricks, open source and freeware in one place, and make it easy for those who visit the blog to find what they need…..just like a vault with goodies. From my quick browse of the site, it seems that the goal is is being realized.
Unlike your lawyer ;), software is one of those rare exceptions to “you get what you pay for”. Instead, it may be helpful to change your thinking to you get what you are willing to search for.