Everyday SysAdmins: What I Use

Applications I use everyday:

Microsoft Windows Vista Ultimate (32-bit) – If you pump enough RAM into Windows Vista it can be very usable.
Microsoft Outlook 2007 – I started using Outlook Express because it came with Windows, but when I saw the power and integration of Outook 97 I was sold. Since then I’ve used every version. I was even more hooked when I began using Outlook with an Exchange server. Although I have tried many other PIM’s, still nothing compares to the productivity and utility of Outlook.
Mozilla Firefox – Hands down FireFox is the best cross-platform browser.
Digsby – multi-protocol instant messenger app with social networking
Winamp – tried and true media player with great keyboard shortcuts
Google Chrome – the fastest browser for start times and load times, lacks extensibility of FireFox, but the features redefine browsing like Gmail redefined email
Microsoft Virtual PC running Windows XP Professional – If you run Windows Vista and your a sysadmin, you have to run Windows XP too. Just keep it clean and give it about 512 MB of RAM and it’s just like having a second computer around.
andLinux – unique hybrid-virtualization of Ubuntu linux that allows me to run KDE apps natively in Windows (like Konsole for Linux server management)

Utilities/Tools

Putty – for ssh/telnet management of servers, routers, and switches
Launchy – application launcher to free you from the Start menu
Switcher – Expose-like application for Vista, requires AERO
reSizer – window placement and sizing with a mouse can be tedious, using reSizer I can move windows between monitors and resize to fit the screen without leaving the keyboard
Remote Desktop Connection – remote management of all of those Windows servers out there

Server Applications I use regularly:

FireFox Extensions

Everyday SysAdmins