Sync Files on Multiple PCs, and 13 Other Freebies

These 10 slick services can help you sync PCs, share large files on the Web, enhance your blog, kill snail mail, and more.

BEST BET Windows Live Sync: Having a tough time keeping files and folders on multiple PCs synchronized? It's a snap for this Microsoft service (registration required). Install the software on each PC, tell the service which folders to look at and how you want them synchronized, and the software does the rest, without your having to do a thing.

Drop.io: If you need to share files, including pictures and videos, this Web site makes it a breeze. Just create a name for a "drop," upload your files to it, and then give access to anyone you want to be able to download them. Each drop includes thumbnails of the files you upload, so people can preview them before downloading.

5min: Want to get advice on using your iPhone effectively, or on asking your boss for a raise? Or maybe you'd prefer to leave work behind a bit and learn how to play the bass, or how to master the Pilates abs core workout routine. You'll find all that and plenty more from this service, which hosts hundreds of videos of 5 minutes or less. It's a do-it-yourselfer's dream.

GreenPrint World: This clever download scans everything you print and removes any wasted pages, such as a Web page with a single line of text. In addition, it removes ads from Web pages and lets you preview the results so that you can remove unwanted pages or images. It will even track how much paper and money you save.

Microsoft Live Mesh: Here's a way to synchronize your PCs and Internet-connected devices, and share files among them. After you create folders on your own Live Mesh Web site (registration required), point all your devices to them. You can also synchronize your devices to what you have in the mesh, and take remote control over devices. The site is sometimes confusing to use, but it's very powerful once you get accustomed to it.

PrintWhatYouLike: Another tool for saving paper is this free online editor, which helps you print any Web page minus the junk, ads, extra space, and images. You can save the page as a PDF or HTML file as well.

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