When I first got internet access in 1996, I was totally amazed at all the software that was offered free or on a trial basis. I’d read about “shareware” in computer magazines but had no idea at how much was actually out there. Back then, my internet connection was a 14.4 modem and my hard drive was a vast 2GB. Needless to say, the size of any file I downloaded was an issue. That’s why the first shareware I discovered and downloaded was PKzip.

If you’re reading this, you probably know what a zip file is. What you may not know is that PKware’s founder developed the .zip format and offered it into the public domain. And PKWare is still in business, improving their software and adding security features to meet today’s needs.

Granted, internet speeds are lightening fast compared to 1996 and thumb drives are bigger than the hard drive in my first Windows 95 machine. Of course, files are much bigger now, too. There’s always a reason to want to save space and PKWare is still providing the best way to compress files as well as encrypting them. That’s right, the creator of the standard in file comprssion has added encryption to keep all your data secure.

One thing that hasn’t changed is the cost. PKWare offers a free-for-personal-use download of their SecureZIP software. Just head over to www.securezip.com to download your copy. SecureZIP can compress your files, saving you up to 90% of space. It also includes a digital certificate so that only the person you choose to see your files will see them, no password required. And don’t worry about spyware – SecureZIP contains no spyware, toolbars or other stuff that you don’t want.

If all that wasn’t enough, PKWare is having a great contest right now, giving away some really cool stuff at www.DecryptandDrive.com. After you download and install the SecureZIP software, register for the contest and use your software to decrypt your entry. You could win a Wii, a bike or even a Honda scooter!

I’m heading over to enter now. If I don’t win, then I sure hope one of my readers do. So, what are you waiting for? Get over there and win some prizes!

It isn’t often that a contest comes along that is geared so perfectly to my stone mason husband and my own blogging passion. The new Remodel, Blog & Win contest, though, is just that. And I’ll bet there are others out there looking for an opportunity just like this.

It doesn’t matter how big or small your remodeling project is; it doesn’t matter if you did it yourself or if you’re hiring someone to do it for you. Just blog about it and enter to win. If you have before and after pictures, that’s even better.

There will be a $1000 reader’s choice prize based on votes as well as a $5000 Grand Prize! I know I could use that kind of money. And just entering will help increase traffic to your blog and may earn you a some new regular readers.

There’s loads of great info at the RemodelingMySpace site so you’ll walk away from this with great ideas and new ways to get your remodeling done. This is a win/win situation for everyone who participates. And you just might win really big! So what are you waiting for? Get on over there and enter today!