As programmers, we're constantly working with computers and code, and sometimes we need the right tools to boost our efficiency. Here are some fantastic tools I've found on Windows that will really level up your productivity.
ServBay - Local Web Development Environment Manager
Let's not beat around the bush—ServBay has to be number one. As a web developer, this tool is an absolute must-have.
For any web developer, configuring and managing local dev environments with Python, Node.js, PHP, MySQL, Nginx, etc., can be a tedious task. ServBay is a tool that integrates all these common services into a single graphical interface. It allows you to easily start, stop, and switch between different service versions. Not only that, but it also supports SSL certificates, saving a huge amount of time on manual configuration and letting me focus on the development work itself.
If you're into AI development, it also supports one-click deployment of Ollama, saving you from the hassle of the command line.
ServBay was previously only available for macOS, but the Windows version has just been released. Windows users can now enjoy it, and it serves as a great alternative to Laragon.
7-Zip - Open-Source and Free File Compression Software
7-Zip is a no-nonsense tool for file compression and decompression. Its advantages are clear: it's completely free, has no ads, and has a very small footprint. Compared to some mainstream compression software, it typically achieves a higher compression ratio with its proprietary .7z format. And while you can use WinRAR without buying it, that constant pop-up reminder is pretty annoying.
It supports all major compression formats, has a simple interface, and runs stably, making it a very reliable choice.
Advanced IP Scanner - A Simple LAN Scanning Tool
If you need to quickly see what devices are on your local network—for example, to find the IP address of a new printer, NAS, or another computer—Advanced IP Scanner is the tool for the job. It's a free scanning tool that quickly lists the IP address, MAC address, and device name of everything on your network. It's extremely convenient for network management and device discovery.
Listary - High-Efficiency File Search and Launcher
Listary streamlines the file searching and application launching experience on Windows. After installation, you can use a shortcut (double-tap Ctrl by default) to instantly bring up a search bar. Just type a few keywords to find any file or application in real-time and hit Enter to open it. It's also deeply integrated into File Explorer, allowing you to quickly navigate to specific files and reducing the need to click through multiple folders.
It's similar to Everything, but Listary still has the edge.
Ditto - A Clipboard History Tool
The default system clipboard only saves the last item you copied, which is very inconvenient when you need to copy and paste frequently. Ditto is a clipboard enhancement tool that automatically records a history of everything you copy (including text and images). When you need to paste something from earlier, you can simply call up the list and make your selection. This greatly improves the efficiency of handling text and data.
Cmder - A More Powerful Windows Command-Line Terminal
The built-in Windows Command Prompt (cmd) has limited functionality and a poor user experience. Cmder is a much better console emulator. It works out-of-the-box with no complex configuration needed, offering a more visually appealing interface, tab support, and integrated Git and common Linux commands (like ls, grep, etc.). It makes using the command line on Windows far more comfortable and efficient.
LibreOffice - A Free and Open-Source Office Suite
LibreOffice is a free, open-source office suite that serves as an excellent alternative to Microsoft Office. It includes several components like Writer (documents), Calc (spreadsheets), and Impress (presentations), meeting most daily office needs. It's also compatible with major document formats like .docx, .xlsx, etc. If you don't want to pay for commercial office software, LibreOffice is a fantastic choice.
Conclusion
All in all, a good tool is one that makes your work smoother and saves you from unnecessary hassle. These are all tools I use myself and find genuinely great. You should give them a try—perhaps one of them will solve a long-standing pain point and give your productivity wings.
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