Stories by: Megan Geuss

You're on a budget, but you need reliable programs that will make your 9-to-5 run more smoothly.

Staying in shape is a constant struggle, but a slew of apps out there can help you track your fitness.

Deals are to be had online--but before you put any money down, consider using some tools to snag even better bargains.

Stay on top of your social media with a few communication tools.

Many of us spend hours getting from one place to another every day. Your smartphone can help you cut down on your travel time, or at least make the most of it.

Whether you consume it or create it, entertainment is likely a huge part of the reason you love tech. You probably already have a subscription to big names such as Amazon Instant Video, Hulu Plus, or Netflix, and those are all good services, but they're not free.

The Internet is like a fancy Hollywood party with lots of swag: You can get tons of stuff for free, but not all of it is good. Still, some of the Web services, apps, and downloads out there are great, and don't require you to pay a cent. Our 17th annual roundup of free stuff includes dozens of no-cost services, apps, and programs that are worth your time. To help you find the most valuable freebies, we've categorized them based on which types of people they'll help most. Enjoy the free life!

You need a vacation, and trips are sometimes expensive. Fortunately, you can find lots of services to plan your vacation that won't cost you a dime.

Microsoft’s keynote speech at CES 2012 may have been the company’s last at the annual trade show, but CEO Steve Ballmer didn’t make too much of the parting of ways. Microsoft has more often than not announced key products at their own shows in the fall rather than at CES.

If customers or employees often complain that your business’ Wi-Fi is too slow, you aren’t alone as wireless demands have been higher than ever, and don’t show any signs of abating. But solving that problem may not just be about upgrading your wireless routing devices, or analyzing for interference of the signal. Instead, slow Wi-Fi might stem from the fact that customers just have too many devices, and your company needs more wireless access points to help them all get online.